pull the knot tight. thicker if unequal). Albright Knot
‐ Για δεσίματα μισινέζας διαφορετικών διαμέτρων (Shock Leader) The Albright Knot is used to join monofilament lines of different sizes. and trim the ends. Then pass the end back through the loop next to itself. for example.
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. thinner) line through the loop and wrap it neatly around itself and the loop 10 times. to join the fly line to the fly‐reel backing line. It is often used. Lubricate. Pass the end of the other (blue.
Albright Knot Tying
Form a loop in one line (gold.

Advantages: The Albright is well suited to slide readily through the guides when a fish pulls out enough line to reach your backing.jpg&Website=www.g.anim atedknots. http://www. It is important to wind the loops neatly round this loop.animatedknots. It helps to hold the loops under your fingers as you wind the line on.com
. It is only moderately easy to tie but it is suitable for joining different types of fishing line.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.com/albright/index. or Braided to Wire. e. It is commonly used to join the fly line to the backing line but can be used whenever you wish to join two fishing lines together.13
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Albright Knot Details
Uses: The Albright Knot is a versatile knot that has a wide range of uses. It is also useful when joining monofilaments with markedly different diameters.. Tying it: The initial loop is made in the larger line. Monofilament to Braided. Some anglers coat the knot with a rubber‐based cement to make it even smoother and more secure.

Alpine Butterfly Bend
The Alpine Butterfly Bend provides a secure method of joining two pieces of rope. It is based on the better known Alpine Butterfly Loop. This page provides links to three other very closely related bends: Ashley, Hunter's, and Zeppelin.

Alpine Butterfly Bend Tying
Join the two ends temporarily. Wind the rope around your hand so that the join is by your finger tips. Go around again. Fold the join back and then up under the other ropes. Push the knot off your hand and tighten to see the appearance of the Alpine Butterfly. Finally, release the temporary join.

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Similar: Alpine Butterfly, Ashley, Hunter's, Zeppelin

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Alpine Butterfly Bend Details
Uses: The Alpine Butterfly Bend is derived from the Alpine Butterfly, or Lineman's, Loop (ABOK # 1053, p 191). It is one in a family of knots based on interlocking overhand knots. It is a reliable bend used to join two ropes of roughly similar size and can be untied even after being heavily loaded. The Alpine Butterfly Bend version enjoys a good reputation ‐ probably because of its association with the better known Alpine Butterfly Loop. Similar Knots: The Alpine Butterfly Bend is remarkably similar to several other bends including the Zeppelin, the Hunter's, and the Ashley. Essentially these knots employ interlocking overhand knots with the ends threaded through or across the middle. David M. Delaney tested these bends and the Carrick Bend for their tendency to jam. He heavily loaded the knots tied in 1/16 inch braided nylon. The Ashley and the Hunter consistently jammed tight and would have had to be cut to release them. The Alpine Butterfly Bend, the Zeppelin, and the Carrick could all be untied easily using fingers and fingernails. Amongst the family of bends based on linked overhand knots, it would seem prudent to avoid the Ashley and the Hunter's. Tying it: Several methods are described for tying it. We devised the method which is used in the animation. It is an improvement on other "hand‐winding" methods and helps locate the junction and where it is to be tucked. This simple technique sets the Alpine Butterfly Bend apart and makes it one of our preferred options. Variation: Our technique does not require the ends to be joined. After the initial wrap, tuck the end of the first rope between your fingers. Then tuck the end of the second rope beside the first and complete the wrap. The two ends can then be passed together as though they were taped. Evil Impostor: Correct tying is critical. Roo illustrates the Evil Impostor which results from threading the ends incorrectly. The Hand‐Wrapping technique introduced here is designed to avoid this risk. Advantages: The Loop version enjoys the reputation of reliably accepting strain between the ends or between the loop and either end. In this version the loop doesn't exist and the strain only falls between the two ends. It has a reputation for strength and reliability. The big advantage of the Alpine Butterfly Bend is its similarity to the Alpine Butterfly Loop ‐ which means learning only one widely trusted knot – and one that is easy to undo even after a heavy load. Breaking Strain: The Alpine Butterly Bend, like the other similar knots, passes the strain around the pair of ends in the middle. This double thickness should minimize the kinking and help to preserve strength. Indeed, the knot is commonly described as "one of the strongest". However, some quoted breaking strains are as low as 53% to 58% – similar to breaking strains for many other knots. http://www.animatedknots.com/alpinebend/index.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www. animatedknots.com

Alpine Butterfly or Linesman's Loop
The Alpine Butterfly provides a secure loop in the middle of a piece of rope. Strain can be applied from the loop to either end or between the two ends.

Alpine Butterfly Loop (Lineman's Loop) Tying
Wrap the rope around your hand twice. At the end of turn one, position the rope close to your fingertips. Continue around and complete turn two back near your thumb. Pick up the turn near your fingertips. Wrap it around the other two turns. Slide the knot off your hand and tighten by pulling on the loop and the ends.

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Alpine Butterfly Loop (Lineman's Loop) Details
Features: What is now known as the Alpine Butterfly Loop was described twice by Ashley: Lineman's Loop (ABOK # 1053, p 191); and Harness Loop (ABOK # 532, p 87). It provides a secure loop in the middle of a piece of rope. Load

can be safely applied: from the loop to either end of the rope; between the two ends with the loop hanging free; or to the loop with the load spread between the two ends. Uses: It is useful anytime a secure loop is required in the middle of a rope. A good example is when a line of hikers wish to hook on along the length of a shared rope or as a possible option for the first part of a Trucker's Hitch. Tying it: There are several methods for tying it. We devised the method that is used in the animation. It is an improvement on other "hand‐winding" methods. It helps locate the loop: the second crossing of your hand is near your fingertips and away from the other two turns. This helps you to locate it, pick it up, and wrap it around the other two strands. Setting the knot usually requires holding the loop in your teeth and pulling both ends with your hands. Advantages: It is more stable than either the Bowline on a Bight or the Figure 8 Loop ‐ both of which may roll over. Even after a heavy load, the Alpine Butterfly Loop remains reasonably easy to undo. In addition, it teaches the technique for tying the Alpine Butterfly Bend. This familiarity is one of the reasons that we prefer the Alpine Butterfly Bend over the other similar bends such as the Zeppelin, the Hunter's, and the Ashley. http://www.animatedknots.com/alpinebutterfly/index.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=w ww.animatedknots.com

Anchor Hitch
The Anchor Hitch ‐ or Fisherman's Hitch ‐ is suitable to attach a line to an anchor. It is like a Round Turn and Two Half Hitches with the first Half Hitch passed under the first round turn. Add one or more Half Hitches for security.

Anchor Hitch (Fisherman's Hitch) Tying
Pass the tail twice around the post keeping the second turn slack. Pass the tail over the standing end and under the original slack turn to tie the first Half Hitch. Continue around the standing end to tie the second Half Hitch and complete the knot. The Anchor Hitch is different from a round turn and two Half Hitches in that the first Half Hitch passes under the first round turn. This view shows the knot loosened to show the first Half Hitch passing through the round turn.

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Structure

Anchor Hitch (Fisherman's Hitch) Details
Uses: The Anchor Hitch, or Bend, (ABOK # 1841, p 309) is also known as the Fisherman's Hitch, or Bend. It is an excellent knot to use for attaching an anchor line to an anchor. Logically, as a knot to attach rope to an object, it should always be called a hitch. However, the name Bend derives from a time when it covered "tied to" and was not restricted to joining two ropes. Comparison: It is very similar to the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches, so similar that it is doubtful if there is much benefit in using one knot over the other. This is partly because, if either knot were being used to secure an anchor line to an anchor, most people would add one or two extra Half Hitches. Many would also seize the tail to the standing end for additional security. http://www.animatedknots.com/anchor/index.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www.anim atedknots.com

Arbor Knot
The Arbor Knot is used to attach the fishing line to the fishing reel or, as its name suggests, to the arbor.

Arbor Knot Tying
Pass the fishing line round the arbor. With the free end, tie an overhand knot around the line. Then tie a second overhand knot in the free end to act as a stopper. Finally, slide the knots down tight against the arbor.

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Arbor Knot Details
Uses: The Arbor Knot is used to attach the fishing line to the "Arbor" or "Spool Center". In fact the Arbor Knot is really based on a noose knot and, therefore, pulling tightens it. Tying it: When the Arbor is accessible, the easiest way to tie the Arbor knot is to create a Noose, drop it on the Arbor and pull it to tighten it. If you make a Slip Knot by mistake it will just pull undone. Alternatively, as shown in the animation, pass the free end around the Arbor and use it to tie an overhand knot around the line. The extra overhand knot in the tag end is essential. As the knot is tightened it snugs down against the Arbor. Some fishermen recommend winding the loop twice round the Arbor before making the first Half Hitch. This increases the friction, which may be useful on some of the more polished reels. Advantages: The Arbor knot is simple, easily learned and effective.

Pass the loop in the standing end through the other loop and then tuck the tail through it. Ashley (Oysterman) Stopper Knot
The Ashley makes a reliable bulky stopper knot in the end of a rope. The underside of the knot shows three separate lobes. Double Overhand
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3‐Lobe pattern
. Tighten the Half Knot first.
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10 Compare: Ashley. Figure 8. This page also provides links to other stopper knots. Then pull the tail tight and finally the standing end.
Ashley Stopper Knot (Oysterman's) Tying
Make a bight and fold it into two loops.

the Double Overhand is more widely used ‐ for good reason ‐ it is far less likely to just shake loose.. and finally the standing end. and these are quite symmetrical when viewed from the underside". Advantages: As a bulky. In boating. In climbing. It is an excellent bulky stopper knot. secure. Tying it: The knot is satisfyingly easy to tie with a diagram in front of you. Similar Knots: The Ashley Stopper Knot should be compared to other knots commonly used as stoppers including the Double Overhand. stopper it deserves to be more widely known. It is far less prone to shake loose than the figure 8 knot and is the bulkiest of the simple stoppers.Ashley Stopper Knot (Oysterman's) Details
Uses: The Ashley Stopper Knot is the name now commonly given to a knot described by Ashley as the Oysterman's Stopper (ABOK # 526. the Half Knot MUST be pulled snug first (shown tightening in frames 6 and 7 of the animation) . and the Figure 8. p 86). the Figure 8 is particularly common. This 3‐lobed structure can be seen in the final Frame. It is also surprisingly easy to get it wrong ‐ as I found out the hard way by getting the animation wrong initially. Ashley's description is that the knot ". It is a pleasure to acknowledge Dan Lehman and Michael Schuh for making me photograph this knot correctly ‐ thank you both! Tightening the Knot: Ashley emphasizes that to make a secure stopper. even though it has a tendency to come undone far too readily.has three rim parts. Then the tail should be pulled. It also forms the basis for tying the Double Fisherman's and the Poacher's or Double Overhand Noose..
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Ashley Bend Tying
Form a bight in each rope. Pass each end over itself. It provides a secure method if joining two ropes together. under both ropes. It is one in a family of knots based on interlocking overhand knots. Ashley Bend
The Ashley Bend is tied using two interlocking overhand knots. Tightening naturally rotates each end around the other to finish adjacent to the other standing end ‐ as shown in the side view. David M. the Hunter's. He heavily loaded the knots tied in 1/16 inch braided nylon. Essentially these knots employ interlocking overhand knots with the ends threaded through or across the middle. and then up through the middle staying close to its own standing end. Delaney tested these bends and the Carrick Bend for their tendency to jam.
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7 Side view Similar: Alpine Butterfly. Hunter's. the Ashley
. It can be hard to untie after being heavily loaded. Tied the way he employed for the testing. Testing by Ashley indicated that it was a reliable knot with very little tendency to slip. Zeppelin
Ashley Bend Details
Uses: The Ashley Bend is the name now given to a knot described by Ashley merely by number (ABOK # 1452). It is used to join two ropes of roughly similar size. Interlock the two bights. Similar Knots: The Ashley Bend is remarkably similar to several other bends including the Zeppelin. and the Alpine Butterfly Bend. Ashley.

it is tied easily by wrapping the rope round the hand. To minimize the risk of jamming. We recommend the Zeppelin because it resists jamming and the Alpine Butterfly Bend because. The Ashley tends to jam and offers no unique advantage to justify its use. http://www. the Zeppelin.animatedknots.com
.jpg&Website=www. The Alpine Butterfly Bend. and the Carrick could all be untied easily using fingers and fingernails.and the Hunter's consistently jammed tight and would have had to be cut to release them. the ends should be arranged as shown and observed during tightening to ensure that they rotate to remain adjacent to the other standing end. uniquely. Choice: The similarity to other bends employing interlocking overhand knots invites confusion ‐ and mistakes.com/ashleybend/index. Tying it: The arrangement of the interlocking loops and the path of the ends through the center are critical.a nimatedknots.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog.

It is created by braiding or plaiting the line. It is a called a 100% knot because the breaking strain is close to that of new. unknotted line. Lubricate and then tighten the bight by pulling smoothly on the tag end. Trim the tag end. Pull the original loop through the bight. Complete the braid using a bight in the tag end. Braid the loop and tag end tightly together (the actual braid length depends on the line weight).
Australian Braid Knot Tying
Form a loop leaving a long tag end.
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. Australian Braid Knot
The Australian Braid creates a loop on the end of the line.

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. In practice this knot requires a lengthy braid to work well. its supporters claim it is easier to learn and quicker to tie. Advantages: This braid transfers the strain gradually to the knot over a considerable length. Line in lbs Braid in inches Up to 6 1" 8‐12 2" 16‐20 3" 30 6" 50 and up 8" http://www. only shows a small number of braids. Sudden jerks generate heat due to friction and are more likely to cause failure at lower breaking strains.13
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Australian Braid Knot Details
Uses: The Australian Braid (or Plait) is an alternative to the Bimini Twist and creates a strong loop for use as a double‐line leader on the end of a fishing line which can then be used for a loop‐to‐loop connection. for photography. I have not found reports of careful laboratory testing for the Australian Braid ‐ and results in use almost certainly vary. is claimed to preserve 100% of the line's breaking strain. and without too great a shock loading. try and persuade her to make the braids for you. wet. Recommendations: The values in the table are based on recommendations from Leadertec and shows the recommended length of braid for different fishing lines.jpg&Website=www.animatedknots. Although it is not nearly so well known as the Bimini Twist.ani matedknots. these remarkable results are obtained in the laboratory and may also be obtained under ideal conditions ‐ cooled.com/australian/index. like the Bimini Twist. Tying it: The animation above demonstrates the technique but. However. As few men are used to braiding. if you are a male reader and have a daughter. Breaking Strain: The Australian Braid (or Plait). It also presents the smallest diameter. Techniques: An additional safeguard to prevent unraveling is provided by a spot of rubber glue over the trimmed tag end.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.

Back Splice
The Back Splice provides a quick and convenient way of preventing the end of a three strand rope fraying.
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. Complete a second and a third set of tucks to complete the back splice.
Back Splice Tying
Form a Crown Knot by passing each strand over its neighbor and then tighten the knot. Splice each strand into the rope by passing it over and under alternate strands in the standing end. A crown knot is formed on the end of the rope and the strands are spliced back into the standing end of the rope.

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Back Splice Details
Uses: The Back Splice (ABOK # 2813. p 462) provides a secure method of preventing the end of a rope from fraying.
. About three complete "tucks" are sufficient as no load is applied to a back splice. Structure: The back splice consists of two parts: a Crown (on left) to redirect the strands back towards the standing end. and the braiding to tuck the ends into the standing strands.

Finishing: Finishing the Back Splice neatly is not essential. Disadvantages: It makes a bulky end to a rope and usually prevents the rope's end from passing though blocks and pulleys. For most purposes. Advantages: No additional tools or equipment are required and it is easily learned and quickly tied. Common. or West Country whipping. Leaving the ends long increases the security of the splice with little penalty.
. It should be regarded as temporary. a whipping is preferred ‐ see Sailmakers. and replaced with a whipping.

Spread the Overhand Knot until it embraces the top of the barrel. Barrel Hitch
The Barrel Hitch provides a secure method of lifting of barrels.
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. buckets and other containers. Join the ends with a Bowline and lift. lay the Overhand Knot on the floor.
Making a Barrel Hitch
Stand the barrel on the lifting rope. Alternatively. Tie an Overhand Knot across the top. and place the barrel on the center and tighten. create the figure 8 appearance.

Also. Today. a barrel can also be lifted on its side using a Cow Hitch. the rope encircling the barrel must be well above the center of gravity but far enough below the top to avoid slipping off. Warning: For stability. care must be taken to ensure that the rope is properly centered under the barrel. an arrangement known as a "Barrel Sling". In fact. With smooth and steady lifting. However. one common variation of the second method uses an actual Figure 8 Knot laid out on the floor instead. the Barrel Hitch provides reasonable security and safety.
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Barrel Hitch Details
Name: Ashley describes two methods of tying this hitch (ABOK # 2176 and 2177. and the second in which the Overhand Knot is laid out on the floor and then adjusted to resemble a figure 8 (Frames A to D).
. Alternative Methods The animation shows two methods: the first in which the Overhand Knot is spread open across the top of the barrel (Frames 1 to 8). p 350. Barrel Hitch is generally used for both these techniques when lifting a barrel upright.) but didn't give either one a name.

unknotted line. With finger and thumb (brown sticks here) compress the twists to make the tag end wind tightly around the twists. It is created by twisting up a long loop of line. Bimini Twist Knot
The Bimini Twist creates a loop on the end of the line. Tighten and trim. Hold the knot and secure it with a Half Hitch and multi‐loop hitch (tuck tag end between the lines). form a loop and twist it at least 20 complete turns.
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. It is a called a 100% knot because the breaking strain is close to that of new.
Bimini Twist Knot Tying
With a long tag end.

and commercial knot makers have all been recommended. Knees.
. hooks. the Half Hitch was actually untied to allow the animation to be finished with only the multi‐turn hitch. spare hands. This produces a smoother finished knot and is preferred by a growing number of fishermen. others have demonstrated that this fails and recommend about 30 turns for monofilament and more for braid. Although one team reported getting good results with about twelve turns. Although they are both shown. Many fishermen do use both. The animation above employed rope to make the knot visible ‐ but used only a fraction of the required number of turns. Options: The animation shows the knot being tied off with a Half Hitch followed by a multi‐turn hitch.13
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Bimini Twist Knot Details
Uses: The Bimini Twist is used to create a strong loop for use as a double‐line leader on the end of a fishing line that can then be used for a loop‐to‐loop connection. Tying it: The many of methods described to tie the Bimini Twist testify to its awkwardness.

these remarkable results are recorded under optimal conditions.animatedknots. Breaking Strain The Bimini Twist. wet.Advantages: The strength of the Bimini Twist depends upon the strain being transferred gradually to the knot over a considerable length.jpg&Website=www.com
. However. and may also be obtained while fishing ‐ cooled.com/bimini/index. It failed at about 20 lb. One severe shock test was made on a 70 turn Bimini Twist tied with 80 lb monofilament with no leader. and without too great a shock load. Careful laboratory testing has shown that the knot fails under some conditions. http://www. It is better known and more widely used than the Australian Braid – which has similar properties and may be easier to learn. is claimed to preserve 100% of the line's breaking strain. This results in failure at lower breaking strains.animat edknots.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Sudden jerks on dry line cause heating due to friction.

When loose. around itself. Bring the end back down. neat. Blake's Hitch
Blake's hitch is a <strong>Slide and Grip</strong> (friction) Hitch designed to take strain in only one direction.
Blake's Hitch Tying
Wrap the end of the line four times around the climbing rope. Tighten to achieve a tight. It has some tendency to loosen and slip. it's easy to see the two turns above and the two turns below the point of exit for the free end.
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. and tuck it behind the climbing rope and under the first two turns so that it exits in the middle. knot. It is used by arborists for ascent and descent.

Tying It: In practice it is an advantage to wind the first two turns while your thumb is inserted up alongside the climbing rope.
Structure
Blake's Hitch Details
Uses: Blake's Hitch is a Friction. in practice the end should be kept long. hitch. Pros and Cons: Like the Rolling Hitch. Note: This final threading must pass behind the main rope as shown. It is used by arborists for ascent and descent. http://www.com
. However Jason Blake described it in a letter to the Arbor Age in 1994. Blake's has the advantage that it can be tied in the end of a piece of rope instead of requiring a Prusik Loop.. In practice it is a stable knot which does not creep or roll along the rope. Additional Security: For photography.animatedknots. the free end has been kept short. Like other Slide and Grip Knots.com/blakes/index.jpg&Website=www. Some writers used to suggest the addition of a stopper knot for security. This maintains a pathway to make it easier to thread the line.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. e. Histroy: Blake's Hitch was first described by Heinz Prohaska in an Austrian Guides Periodical in 1981 and then again in the Nylon Highway #30 in May 1990. the strain should only be taken on the line below the hitch. Blake's Hitch itself should not be used for traction because pulling directly on the hitch loosens it and allows descent – unexpected and uncontrolled. or Slide and Grip. However.anim atedknots.g. It is now widely known as Blake's Hitch and this name is used here. a Double Overhand or a Figure 8.

Blood Knot Tying
Overlap the two lines to be joined. Blood Knot
Δημιουργία θηλειάς The Blood Knot is used to join two fishing lines of similar size. Tuck the end back between the lines.
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. Wrap one end around the other line about six times. Note: in nylon tightening this knot alters the appearance. Tighten and trim. tucking the end back between the lines in the opposite direction. Repeat the process with the other line.

Although the twists usually continue in the same direction either side of the center as shown in the animation. when joining sections of leader or tippet. Then go to the center of the twists and create a hole. which provides a good picture of the structure. and is one of the best knots for this purpose. Tying it: There are several methods of tying it..com
.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Pulling on each line forces the wrapped turns to redistribute the twists so that the inner strand becomes an outer wrap (not illustrated in the animation using rope). and up to seven. the knot changes its structure. http://www.13
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Blood Knot Details
Uses: The Blood Knot is a favorite knot for fly fisherman.g. easily learned and very effective way of joining two similar sized lines. it can be tied so that the wraps are mirror images of each other. The strength of the knot depends on making at least five.animatedknots. Alternative: An alternative method is to just overlap the two ends and twist them together for about ten to fourteen turns.jpg&Website=www. Whichever method is used.ani matedknots. Pass the two ends the opposite way through the hole. The animation above shows each half being created separately. the knot is usually symmetrical about the middle. It is primarily used to join two lines of similar size.com/bloodknot/index. turns on each side of the center Pulling the Knot Tight: When lubricated and pulled tight. Advantages: The Blood knot is a simple. e.

Continue around the standing end and then back through the small loop.g.. Pass the end of the rope through the loop as though making an overhand knot. It has many uses. p 186) makes a reasonably secure loop in the end of a piece of rope. Its principal shortcoming is that it cannot be tied. When there is no strain it can easily be undone. a mooring line may have to be released under load. in the Bowline the tying is carried out using the bight whereas in the Sheet Bend it is usual to use the loop. Under load.
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Structure
Bowline Knot Details
Uses: The Bowline (ABOK # 1010.
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Bowline Knot Tying
Form a small loop leaving enough rope for the desired loop size. to fasten a mooring line to a ring or a post. The Bowline is identical in structure to the Sheet Bend ‐ in both knots a bight locks into a loop. it does not slip or bind. However. or untied. With no load it can be untied easily. Name: The name Bowline derives from "bow line". The Bow Line Knot secured the line holding the weather leech of a square sail forward to prevent it being taken aback. for example. It should therefore be avoided when. Two bowlines can be linked together to join two ropes. It can be used to secure a line to a ring or post. when there is a load on the standing end. Bowline
The Bowline makes a secure loop in the end of a piece of rope. e.

The left handed version performs satisfactorily but is generally regarded as less relable then the standard bowline. When a bowline is unloaded. e. it has happened to me! Fortunately I only lost a scrubbing brush. Passing the end the opposite way round the standing end forms a "Left Handed" bowline (ABOK # 1034 1/2. on a mooring line. The bowline is relatively tolerant of such stresses.One Handed: The bowline can be tied with one hand ‐ useful if injured. A half‐inch diameter rope would require a tail more than eighteen inches long but this is rarely seen in practice. essential if you are using the other hand to hold on to the line or the boat! Left Handed Bowline: When tied as shown in the animation. Shakes Undone If Not Loaded: A bowline makes a poor safety knot for a swimmer. Safety Knot: Climbers typically pass the tail outside the loop and under the collar to form a Yosemite Tie‐off (left) or they fasten the tail with a double overhand knot either to the adjoining loop or to the standing end (right & below). Nevertheless some texts quote a rule of thumb which states that. the length of loose end should be 12 times the circumference. for safety. Length of Tail End: An intermittent load. the tail lies in the middle of the loop. may cause many knots to slip or loosen.
. p 188) (see left).. it can very readily work its way untied ‐ I know.g.

. Tighten to complete the knot. Make a loop and pass the end of the bight through it.
Bowline on a Bight Tying
In the middle of a piece of rope. It does not slip or bind. Bowline on a Bight
The Bowline on a Bight creates a double loop in the middle of a rope. A bight of the rope is used to enclose both "standing ends". form a bight. See also the Alpine Butterfly. p 195) makes a secure loop in the middle of a piece of rope. It is satisfying to start with a plain length of rope and finish with a secure safe loop in its middle (picture on right). It has a similar structure to a normal bowline.
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Bowline on a Bight Details
Uses: The Bowline on a Bight (ABOK # 1080. Open up the bight and bring it around the entire knot until it encircles both standing ends.

unless the rope was a couple of inches or more in diameter it would require a demanding emergency to make one really appreciate the "comfort" of either of these bosun's chairs. This knot was one of the justifications for preparing these animations. One loop can go round each thigh with the free tail going round the chest for security. However. It does not slip or bind. However.
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additional purchase: create a Bowline on a Bight in the rope. Emergency Purchase: A Bowline on a Bight can also be used to gain some additional purchase: create a Bowline on a Bight in the rope.
Bosun's Chair: Because two loops are created it has been claimed that it makes an emergency bosun's chair which is more comfortable than a single loop. This gives a three to one purchase ‐ admittedly with some friction. Emergency Purchase: A Bowline on a Bight can also be used to gain some Bowline on a Bight Details Uses: The Bowline on a Bight (ABOK # 1080. one loop would go round the chest and one round the thighs. pass the free end of the rope round a post. one loop would go round the chest and one round the thighs. Alternatively. Several Applications:
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Foothold: It can be used to make a secure foothold in the middle of a piece of rope. unless the rope was a couple of inches or more in diameter it would require a demanding emergency to make one really appreciate the "comfort" of either of these bosun's chairs. see also the Trucker's Hitch.
. See also the Alpine Butterfly. Alternatively. It is satisfying to start with a plain length of rope and finish with a secure safe loop in its middle (picture on right). then back through the loops and finally to the post again. This gives a three to one purchase ‐ admittedly with some friction. pass the free end of the rope round a post. Several Applications:  Foothold: It can be used to make a secure foothold in the middle of a piece of rope. see also the Trucker's Hitch. This knot was one of the justifications for preparing these animations. However. then back through the loops and finally to the post again. Tying it: It should be easy to tie but because it is initially hard to visualize it can be confusing. One loop can go round each thigh with the free tail going round the chest for security. Bosun's Chair: Because two loops are created it has been claimed that it makes an emergency bosun's chair which is more comfortable than a single loop. p 195) makes a secure loop in the middle of a piece of rope.Tying it: It should be easy to tie but because it is initially hard to visualize it can be confusing. However.

. Twist the loop to create the next hole for the end to pass through. Repeat as often as required to complete the braid.
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Braiding a Single Rope Details
Uses: Braiding several strands is often learned in childhood as a way of controlling long hair. Pass the end through the loop.
Braiding a Single Rope
Make a loop which is about the length needed for the braid. Braid a Single Rope
A single rope can be braided by pulling one end through the loop repeatedly. This animation demonstrates how to make a braid with a single piece of rope.

Then after adding several braids. The strands are manipulated close against the braid ignoring the fact that the end and the loop are getting tangled. the end is pulled clear of the loop.
. In practice braiding is made in the usual way.Methods: The animation shows the braid being tied with the rope's end being threaded through the loop.

Then. make a hole in the short end and pass the long end through it.
Making a Brummel Eye Splice using Both Ends Make a hole in the long end and pass the short end through it. Snug the splice together and pass the tail of the short end down the center of the long end. Brummel Demo
Demonstration of the Brummel Splice Structure
How the Brummel Splice is constructed.
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Ideal Length. the lock distorts the fibers and would lower the breaking strain if used alone. The final strength should be 90 ‐ 100% of the rope's breaking strain. More Details: For more information about Making the Holes. using a fid makes the process easier. the two parts of the splice lie closely against each other to make the lock. In practice. Strength: The intended strength is derived from the long tail being tapered and buried through the center of the standing end – which exerts a powerful gripping action under tension. The Brummel Lock: When completed. Brummel Structure: The animation shows how the Locked Brummel can be tied when both ends are available to be threaded through the rope. The short ends were used here to allow close‐up photography. and Stitching visit the pages about the Locked Brummel ‐ Using One End and the Long Bury Splice. especially when passing the long buried tail up the center of the standing end. However.
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Brummel Eye Splice using Both Ends Details
Warning: in practice use a much longer tail and a more gradual taper – see below. Tapering the End. the force in the standing end is progressively shared between the two lines.
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Making a Brummel Eye Splice
Making a Mark the length needed for the eye. Choose the hole nearest the end and pull a bight and the other hole through. Brummel Eye Splice
Create Eye Splice in Hollow Braid Rope A technique to create a locked eye splce in a hollow braid rope. through the second hole pull a bight. Then. Snug the splice together and pull the short end through the center of the standing end. Make a hole at each mark and pass the end through and pull.
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g. A large fid may help or a bight of line can be wrapped around the rope and used to pull it through. Measure: Mark the length of the long buried end by measuring off 72 diameters of the rope. Make the Lock with One End: The animation shows how the Locked Brummel is tied when only the working end is available to be threaded through the rope. When a bight is passed back through them later. of course. The two holes should be made so that they line up and face the same direction. Restore the First Hole: Choose the hole nearest the end and tuck the Eye through the hole followed by the second hole and some extra rope. The section between these holes becomes the "Eye". Then measure off the length required for the final eye plus 3 rope diameters and make a second mark. 3 feet for a half‐ inch rope. It is.. The process of passing the end through the rope. it restores the twists back to normal without using the long end. It helps to stretch the hole first. Now. This process can be awkward. Note: this additional length is necessary because the splice consumes some of this measured length. e. The technique tends to be confusing and repetition is required to memorize and master the details. the fibers around both holes are restored to normal and the Brummel lock is complete. Create Two Inverted Holes: The whole key to making a Brummel splice is the creation of Brummel holes with spiral twisted sides.
. The short ends were used here to allow close‐up photography. much easier to tie when both ends are available. because then there is no need to invert the two holes first. Restore the Second Hole: Tuck the Eye through the second hole.13
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Brummel Eye Splice Details
Warning: in practice use a much longer tail and a more gradual taper – see below. creates the Brummel hole. The two holes can be made in any order. Each hole should be made by carefully separating the strands – exactly an equal number on each side of the hole.

and stitched. Simpler Method: To obtain the same result using a simpler technique. Finishing the Splice: For maximum strength and reliability.Dress the Splice: This process may have restored the spiral twists around the sides of each hole but the rope is still distorted.
. These maneuvers achieve exactly the same result as when both ends are available. Snug the two holes together. the long tail end is tapered. Finally the throat of the splice is whipped ‐ see detailed descriptions of these procedures in the Long Bury Splice. buried. visit the McDonald Brummel page. The rope either side of the holes should be massaged back to restore normal spacing of the strands.

pass the end through the further hole to make the eye.
Making a McDonald Brummel Eye Splice
With the rope marked and holes prepared.
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. Pass the eye through this hole to untwist the fibers each side back to normal. Then pass the end through the near hole to twist the fibers either side of the hole. Brummel McDonald
Simpler Eye Splice in Hollow Braid Rope The McDonald technique offers a simpler method to create a locked eye splice in a hollow braid rope. Tighten to the locked position.

Ideal Length. does not have to be inverted and. a much larger eye is usually desired. In addition. only a single step is illustrated here with the assumption that that it is completed with a long bury. Technique only: The animation shows only the critical steps of her technique. The short ends were used here to allow close‐up photography. McDonald Brummel Technique: Margie McDonald. Accordingly.
. Additional Brummels: McDonald's technique can be continued to produce a stack of Brummels. The other hole makes the eye.
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McDonald Brummel Eye Splice Details
Warning: in practice use a much long tail and a more gradual taper – see below. The result is a normal locked Brummel using a single end but her method reduces the steps and the complexity. and Stitching visit the pages about the Locked Brummel ‐ Using One End and the Long Bury Splice. Tapering the End. the strength of a Brummel splice derives from the long buried tail – not the Brummels themselves. who illustrates the Brion Toss/Margie McDonald series of Working Rope books. The Difference: Only the hole near the end has to be inverted and then restored. developed the technique shown in this animation. However. For more information about Making the Holes. therefore requires no restoration.

p 310) was originally employed to secure the buntlines to the foot of the square sails.
. Up to frame 5 in the animation the rope merely wraps around the standing end. the finished knot is a clove hitch around the standing end but the clove hitch is inverted when compared to the clove hitch in a Round Turn and Two Half Hitches. Structure When complete. Form a Half Hitch to complete the knot. However. It makes a secure hitch to a ring or a pole. Make a complete turn around the standing end and then through the hole beside the pole. Buntline Hitch
The Buntline Hitch was originally employed to secure buntlines to square sails. Disadvantages: This knot cannot be tied under a load and.
Buntline Hitch Tying
Pass the tail around the pole. Advantages: It is more secure than two Half Hitches and very resistant to shaking loose.
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Buntline Hitch Details
Uses: The Buntline Hitch (ABOK # 1847. A heavy load tends to tighten the hitch and may make it difficult to untie. after being heavily loaded. while it is being tied the first part of the knot should not be called a Half Hitch. it is more liable to jam and be awkward to release than two Half Hitches. Repeated shaking and jerking by a flapping sail tended to tighten this knot ‐ hence its value.

where it is known as the Four‐in‐ Hand Knot.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog. http://www.Other Uses: Although it is not obvious.animatedknots.ani matedknots. the same knot is widely used for neckties. The difference is merely in the material used and in the alignment of the final part of the knot so that the two ends emerge parallel.com
.jpg&Website=www.com/buntline/index.

or one of the crossings may be incorrect. it probably deserves to be used more often. an intermittent pull will gradually work the knot towards the tails until it is undone! Place: Because the Carrick Bend is reliable and has the enormous advantage of being easy to undo. p 263) joins two ropes together. Thread the tail (red) across the loop passing under itself. Then pull both standing ends to tighten the knot. Structure: The knot curls up under strain and the attractive.
Carrick Bend Tying
With one rope (blue) form a loop with the tail under the standing end. It is recommended when joining two large tow‐line hawsers. Carrick Bend
The Carrick Bend joins two ropes securely and can readily be untied ‐ even after a heavy load. These other versions of this knot perform far less well. if tied incorrectly. Pass the other rope (red) under the blue loop and then over and then under as shown. mat‐like appearance vanishes." It is also makes the center of the very decorative Lanyard Knot. However. It is important that the tails lie diagonally opposite each other.
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Carrick Bend Details
Uses: The Carrick Bend (ABOK # 1439. it is slightly awkward to assemble and it is easy to make a mistake: you can have both tails on the same side of the knot. Ashley describes it as "the bend commonly tied in hawsers and cables. The knot deserves to be better known and more widely used.

Compare: The Carrick should be compared to the Alpine Butterfly Bend.com/carrick/index. and both remain easy to untie after a heavy load. They are both excellent bends composed of interlocking loops.animatedknots. http://www.com
.anim atedknots.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www.

which is the name we have chosen for it. However. the two ends can be heated in a flame and fused together. the same knot can also be formed so that the pattern stands on edge around a larger central hole.
Carrick Bend Mat Tying
Form a loop and then lay the rope across it. Tuck the end in and secure it. four‐bight Turks Head in which the rope has been passed around a second time. Pass the end of the rope across the loop using an alternating over and under sequence. and the material is one that melts. Over and Under Sequence: This small design is a member of a family of knots in which the crossings are taken alternately over and under. p 371) but no name. This can be described as a three‐lead. Finishing the Mat: The two ends can be secured in one of several ways. p 264). When the mat is purely decorative. Turk's Head Family: The design is also a member of the Turk's Head family. It bears a strong resemblance to a Carrick Bend (ABOK # 1439. to do this
. This is one of the smallest versions and makes a pleasing small mat. Follow the same path around again still using the over and under sequence.
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Carrick Bend Mat Details
Origin: This simple mat was given a number by Ashley (ABOK # 2287. Carrick Bend Mat
The Carrick Bend is the basis for the design of this small mat. However. It is presented here as a flat knot.

Whichever method is chosen.
. Ashley provides a huge selection of designs. Choice of Material: If the rope or cord is too limp. Additional Turns: Although only two complete turn are shown in the animation. the mat's pattern will not be very stable. The mat then has a thicker section and is less suitable as a tablemat. some of which are very elaborate with many crossings.necessitates passing the ends across other turns. the junction should be located under another turn as demonstrated in the animation. Another way to finish the mat is to attach each end to the neighboring turn using needle and thread. A cord with some degree of lengthwise rigidity and firmness is an advantage. one or more additional turns can be added using the same technique to enhance the final appearance. glue. Some of the larger versions make useful stair treads and chair covers. Uses: Small rope mats make excellent tablemats and hot pads. or twine and constrictor knots.

. Then follow the first strand round the same path to finish at the original starting position. p 365).
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Celtic Knot Details
Origin: Our simple example of a Celtic Knot appears to be identical to the starting layout for Ashley's Six‐Stranded Platted Mat (ABOK # 2256. Celtic Knot Mat
The Celtic Knot makes a pleasing rope mat with a rectangular shape. except that we used his starting position and followed the pattern round a second time whereas Ashley shows it as the basis for a more complicated mat.
Celtic Knot Tying
Use a strict under and over sequence to tie a simple Celtic Knot.

squares. However. Some of the larger versions make useful stair treads and chair covers. The mat then has a thicker section and is less suitable as a tablemat. triangles and circles. one or more additional turns are added using the same technique. The entire mat is then tightened to eliminate space between the turns.
. Ashley provides a huge selection of designs. They vary in size and complexity with shapes that include rectangles. Uses: Small Celtic Knot mats make excellent tablemats and hot pads. Another way to finish the mat is to attach each end to the neighboring turn using needle and thread. We included this simple example here because one writer asked us why we had selected it as the icon for our decorative knots section but failed to show how to tie it! Additional Turns: Only two complete turns are shown in the animation and space remains between the turns. the two ends can be heated in a flame and fused together. the junction should be concealed under another turn as demonstrated in the animation. and the material is one that melts. to do this an end has to be passed across other turns. For a more pleasing appearance. Finishing the Mat: The two ends can be secured in one of several ways. some of which are very elaborate with many crossings. When the mat is purely decorative. glue. Whichever method is chosen.Celtic Knots: Many different patterns and designs claim to be Celtic Knots. or twine and constrictor knots.

When the chain is long enough. Keep repeating. lock it by passing the end through the final loop. as a decoration. It is used by climbers to store rope free of tangles. Form a loop and tuck it into the noose.
Chain Sinnet (Monkey Braid) Tying
Make a noose in the rope.
Chain Sinnet.. Make another loop and tuck it into the previous loop. e. Chain Stitch or Monkey Braid
The Chain sinnet converts a cord into a braid that has the appearance of a chain. for the end of a light pull.g.
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. and to shorten and add bulk to a cord.

it would be a tedious method to use to "coil" a long rope. Chain Stitch. Monkey Braid. The chain is released by withdrawing the end.. all of the knots vanish as if by magic. it can be used to shorten. e. Alternatives. It turns a piece of string into a pleasing chain. It is found on dress uniforms. Crochet Stitch.g. Single Bugle Braid. When used for storing rope. and repeat. p 472) is tied by many of us as children. Single Trumpet Braid. and it is also used by climbers as a means of preventing a rope getting tangled.13
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Chain Sinnet (Monkey Braid) Details
Uses: The Chain Sinnet (ABOK # 2868. Advantages: The Chain Sinnet requires minimal skill or dexterity!
. Complete the chain by feeding the end through the final bight. Withdrawing the other end merely shortens the chain by one link. The conventional Coiling Technique is to be preferred. the end of a light pull. Structure: Tie a Slip Knot in the rope. when being washed or stored. Other Names: It is known by many names including: Daisy Chain. Monkey Chain. And. when pulled. and Chain Braid. tuck a bight into the loop. Disadvantages: Although it may be useful when washing a rope in a washing machine. it is much quicker to make much larger loops. and add bulk to. The animation above shows a chain that has been pulled tight at each link. It has to be the end you used to complete the chain.

Chain Splice
The Chain Splice securely attaches a three‐stranded rope to an anchor chain using a modified eye‐splice.
Chain Splice Tying
Tape rope. and the third and fourth. Splice each strand back into the standing end of the rope. Unravel enough for 5 ‐ 7 tucks. It allows the rope to follow the chain over the windlass and into the chain locker without tangles. Pass the strands into the chain ‐ one strand one way through the chain and two strands the other way.
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. Repeat for the second set of tucks. Use five to seven sets of tucks for security.

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Chain Splice Details
Uses: The Chain Splice is a modification of the Eye Splice described by Ashley (ABOK # 2725. It is particularly useful when a chain/rope combination passes over a windlass and descends into a chain locker.
. only five sets of tucks were completed. p 449) completed with additional tucks. Note: for photography. Structure: Technically it is a miniature Flemish Eye (ABOK # 2751. p 445). Seven complete sets of tucks are recommended.

com
. the wrapping tape (or the constrictor) should be removed so that the splice can be tightened against the chain. Lay the three strands down beside the rope and thread them through adjacent standing strands as close to the chain as possible.jpg&Website=www. burn the three ends and wrap the rope at the correct length.Preparation: To prevent chaos. Practical aspects: As when making the Eye Splice.animatedknots. It is neatest when the single strand passes between the other two. Complete the remainder of the splice by tucking each tail over and under standing strands. After the first tuck is completed for all three stands. Remember to twist each tail tightly before pulling on it! Durability: By its nature. Making the Splice: Pass two strands together through the end of the chain and pass the third strand in the reverse direction. a chain splice may be subject to heavy load and chafing. It should be inspected if used frequently and a worn splice should be cut off and remade a few inches further up the rope. in many yachts where the anchor is only used occasionally. keep each end as neat and tightly wound as possible ‐ at least for the first three tucks.a nimatedknots. the chain may rust and become untrustworthy long before the splice shows significant wear! http://www.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog. For seven tucks.com/chainsplice/index. measure at least 21 times the rope's diameter and wrap the rope with tape or a Constrictor Knot tied in twine. However. Unravel the strands back to the tape or twine.

Linked to this page is a another page about cleating a halyard.g. Cleat Hitch (Deck)
The Cleat Hitch attaches a rope to a cleat. and sheets. However. it collects dirt and eventually leaves a spiral stain on the deck. There is often spare rope left unused. This is secure and keeps the deck clear. It is frequently used to secure a mooring line to a dock cleat. Coiling the rope as a Flemish Flake is a common option. A better solution is to use the tail to tie a Rolling Hitch around the Standing End. Continue making several more figure 8 turns around each horn.
Cleat Hitch for a Dock Line Tying
Do not bring the line around the near horn.
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. then around the other.. e. Go around the far horn. for dinghy bow lines. and back across the middle. It has many other uses.

Acknowledgements: Several people have written to provide suggestions about this knot. a towline should always be monitored. There is a risk if the initial turn continues around and under the first horn a second time (making a complete round turn). he was writing when tarred hemp was the rope of choice. Now if a towline briefly becomes slack. Number of Turns: In most of Ashley's illustrations he shows astonishingly few turns.10
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Flemish Flake Options: Deck. page 284). Sheeting a Sail: Never cleat the sheet controlling a sail – rapid release may be critically important in preventing a disaster. and only for temporary use in sheltered conditions. This is because the Figure 8 Turns lift the rope up against the horns and out of the way of the first turn. Starting round the wrong horn increases the risk of a jam. First. Towing: Never cleat either end of a towline. Some modern illustrations still show only a single crossover followed by a Half Hitch. the dock lines for a yacht left in a harbor. Today's ropes may be stronger. Second. the ability to quickly release either end is essential. An intermittent load on a nylon rope may transmit tension to the Half Hitch and make release awkward. always add more – certainly enough to handle any storm load. e.
Use a Locking Hitch? In other situations a locking hitch is commonly used. a rope used to be secured to a vertical pin in a wooden beam called. However. the halyards cleated to the mast. Ashley describes several variations including the use of a single hitch by itself (ABOK # 1594. slippery. Halyard
Rolling Hitch
Cleat Hitch for a Dock Line Details
Uses: The Cleat Hitch secures a rope to a cleat. a "Belaying Pin". the initial turn can separate away from the cleat and then clamp down on top of the second turn making it impossible to release the rope while there is load on the towline. a capsize. First Horn: Initially the rope must be led round the most distant horn of the cleat followed by a turn in the same direction round the other horn..g. No Locking Hitch? Several skippers have written to say that there are situations when a Locking Turn should not be used:    Large Vessels: The uniform practice on large vessels is to never cleat the ropes. I am indebted to Kevin Redden for the following practical advice: two crossovers is the bare minimum.g. See also using a cleat hitch for Securing a Halyard. In all other situations. and flag halyards. It is deceptively simple and an unwary skipper who invites visitors to cleat a mooring line may be astonished and dismayed by the unsatisfactory results. of course. Before cleats were common.. History: "Belaying a rope" means securing it or making it fast. thinner. e. and more elastic (nylon rope stretches by more than 5% when loaded to 20% of its rated breaking strain). In particular it is a pleasure to thank Kevin Redden who explained the risk of using a full round turn and provided a recommendation about the
. No Round Turn: After passing the rope around two horns of the cleat. always cross over and make figure 8 turns afterwards.

a uniform technique is recommended when Mooring. It is deceptively simple and an unwary skipper who invites visitors to secure a halyard may be astonished and dismayed by the unsatisfactory results. goes around the lower horn first. Continue down across the middle. and then up across again. and Cleating a sheet: always cross the center after the first two horns. By contrast. a halyard usually falls roughly parallel to the cleat and. Halyard
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Cleat Hitch for a Halyard Details
Uses: The Cleat Hitch secures a rope to a cleat. However. for safety. Towing. For a halyard there may little harm in continuing in the same direction around the lower horn again.
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Cleat Hitch for a Halyard Tying
Pass the rope around the bottom horn and on around over the top. inevitably. No Round Turn: As shown in the animation. Twist a loop in the rope and hook it on the cleat as a Half Hitch.
. First Horn: A mooring rope reaches a deck cleat at an angle and must be led round the most distant horn of the cleat first. Cleat Hitch (Halyard)
The Cleat Hitch attaches a halyard to a cleat.

of course. Today's ropes may be stronger. additional crossover turns are commonly used. he was writing when tarred hemp was the rope of choice. An extreme load may transmit tension to the Half Hitch and make release awkward. After the rope has passed around the bottom and top horns. slippery.Tightening a Halyard: A halyard may be subject to a considerable load. Ashley describes several variations including the use of a single hitch by itself (ABOK # 1594. For this reason. However.jpg&Website=www. and more elastic (nylon rope stretches by more than 5% when loaded to 20% of its rated breaking strain). thinner. History: "Belaying a rope" means securing it or making it fast. page 284). there may not be a winch.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog.com
. a "Belaying Pin".animatedknots. The animation shows only a single crossover before the crossover with the Half Hitch. Before cleats were common.ani matedknots.com/cleatvert/index. On older sailing boats. http://www. Number of Turns: In most of Ashley's illustrations he shows astonishingly few turns. one person holds the tail and takes up slack while another swings sideways on the rope above to gain the slack. a rope used to be secured to a vertical pin in a wooden beam called.

can also bind. It can be used to attach a rope to a pole or ring. This page links to a another page showing how to tie the Clove Hitch using the end. Because it is simple. included here with the intention of condemning it. Using End
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Clove Hitch using Half Hitches Details
Alternatives: In addition to tying it Using Half Hitches. For example. However. paradoxically. It does have two giant faults: it slips and.
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7 Options: Half Hitches. Place it over the post and tighten. To make the hitch secure. originally. Using Loops. Uses: As shown in this animation. p 224) was. It should be deeply distrusted when used by itself. Only two Half Hitches were used. additional Half Hitches must be added in the same manner. Form a second loop identical to the first. it is widely known.
Clove Hitch tying using Half Hitches
Form a loop in the working end of the rope. the Clove Hitch can make a quick hitch. and in
. the Clove Hitch can also be tied by Threading the End and by Using Stacked Loops Caution: The Clove Hitch (ABOK # 1245. Place it over the post.
Clove Hitch (Half Hitches)
The Clove Hitch is formed by making two Half Hitches. it <strong>must</strong> be used with caution because it can jam or slip. The Clove Hitch has various applications. in the theater it is used to adjust the height of stage curtains hanging from a bar.

Alternatives: There are good alternatives available:  Mooring: o A Round Turn and Two Half Hitches o Rolling Hitch o Bowline o Cleat Hitch Temporary whipping for a frayed rope end o Constrictor Knot
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Paradox: When you tie the round turn and two Half Hitches.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. he used a clove hitch to attach the line to the dock's post.jpg&Website= www.animatedknots. Reviewing the events later it became apparent that the assistant was using the only knot he knew.animatedknots. The offshore wind was blowing the stern away so my friend used his engines to swing the stern in. the Clove Hitch's problems are slipping and binding: Slipping: I watched a friend trying to dock his 53' Hatteras. Each time he did so the strain was too much for the Clove Hitch. if you make the knot secure by stacking on additional Half Hitches. in the process you actually create a clove hitch round the standing end! http://www.com
. if on a boat you feel an urge to use a clove hitch ‐ resist! Choose something else unless you are merely hanging a fender.boating it can be used to initially position a fender hanging from a rail. Binding: Finally. Each time the bow mooring line was handed to the marina assistant.e. Both are described in the section about the Clove Hitch tied by Threading the End. So. This process was repeated seven times despite increasingly forceful requests that some other knot be employed to secure the line. i. Dangers: As stated above.com/clovehalfhitches/index. which slipped undone. then you are inviting a major strain to cause the earlier turns to bind tightly and become impossible to untie.. multiple clove hitches. It is not a knot to be used alone.

Keep repeating. Tighten the loose half knots and trim the ends off. tie another half knot and tighten. Tuck the ends inside the loose knots. Tie a half knot around the loop and tighten.
Cobra Knot (Solomon Bar or Portuguese Sinnet) Tying
Make a loop and tie an overhand knot. Cobra Knot
The Cobra Knot creates a neat lanyard. It is commonly used in military shoulder lanyards.
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. Keeping the same rope in front. Leave the last several knots loose (only two shown here).

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Cobra Knot (Solomon Bar or Portuguese Sinnet) Details
Uses: The Cobra knot (Solomon Bar or Portuguese Sinnet) is one of the commonest lanyard knots. making a stack of granny knots. The finished lanyard can be attached to the pull‐ring using a Girth Hitch. Macrame Names: Unfortunately macrame uses totally different names. the same Half Hitch can be repeated. it provides an excellent lanyard pull for a snap shackle. In effect it is a stack of Square Knots tied around a core.
. Variations: The version shown here uses a stack of alternating Half Knots. the result is a neat spiral. The two Cobra versions are known as a Square Knot and a Spiral Stitch. It is very widely used in military shoulder lanyards and in many macrame patterns Application: When completed as shown in the animation. Alternatively.

can be hung from the cleat or belaying pin (ABOK # 3088. p 513) using a twisted bight. Make the coil with alternate turns over and under the rope.. Pull a twisted loop of the slack through the coil.
Attached Rope Coiling
Start from where the rope is attached to the cleat. Leave enough slack to form the final loop. a halyard. The bight supporting the coil can be unhooked very quickly to allow the coil to be rapidly released: when the coil is laid on the deck the rope should run freely without kinks or tangles.
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Coiling Attached Rope Details
Uses: An attached rope. Coil Attached Rope
How to coil an attached rope like a halyard or a sheet and then secure the coil so that it can be readily undone to run out freely when required. Hang the loop on the cleat. e.

In heavy weather. the coil can be finished like the Unattached Coil: the halyard is used to wrap the coil and then a bight of it is passed over the top of the coil. More Secure Loop: If the slack is left long enough.   Figure 8 Coil: A Figure 8 coil (right) can be used to avoid introducing twists and can be secured in the same way. These turns bind the coil and may hold it more securely. There are several options.Never Wrap the Coil with the Tail End: Tension on the halyard can tighten the turns in the coil around the bight and can make releasing the bight almost impossible. Untwisted Wraps: As an alternative to hanging the coil on a twisted loop. This method takes slightly longer to release the coil. the twisted loop can be passed behind the tight halyard before being hooked on the cleat. Variations: The animation demonstrates a round coil being made where the tail is secured to the foot of the mast. a larger bight can be left and then wrapped two or three times through the coil before being hooked on to the cleat. Nothing to Hang the Coil On: If there is no space on the cleat to hang the coil on. Alternating turns are laid over (Frame 3) and under (Frame 4) to avoid twists. the halyard is then more likely to stay securely coiled but can still be released very rapidly. The coil is started from the cleat.
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Pull tight.
Coiling Unattached Rope
Start making a coil in your hand. Continue making loops alternating over and under. Spread the bight out and bring it back down over the coil. Each alternate strand is inverted. Coil Unattached Rope
How to coil an unattached rope in your hands and make a secure bundle which preserves the coil neatly. Wrap the end around the coil several times. Pass a bight through the coil.
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These alternate turns lie "under" the line rather than "over" it. twist alternate turns in opposite directions. Finishing the Coil: The coil is finished by winding the rope tightly round the coil ‐ with a finger (or your hand for large ropes) still inside the coil to maintain the lay of the turns. To avoid introducing multiple twists. or unattached.13
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Coiling Unattached Rope Details
Uses: A free. a bight is passed through the coil where your fingers were. however. as shown in frame 5 above. and should remain undisturbed even if the rope is allowed to run out rapidly. Using the Coil: After unwrapping. Instead each turn is laid as a
. The bight is spread out and tightened around the coil to preserve this lay until you need to use the rope. The coil should be well secured so that it will remain tidily coiled and can be used quickly and easily without tangles or twists. because only a short end is involved the turns are easily shaken out. However. Figure 8 Coil: Another popular technique for avoiding twists and tangle is the Figure 8 Coil (left): no twist is put in the rope as you form each turn. Alternating over and under turns avoids the accumulation of multiple twists in the rope. The reason that this method of uncoiling is important is that it has to be used to allow a halyard to run freely and practice makes perfect. rope (like a climbing rope) is best stored in a neat coil (ABOK # 3089. The end used to wrap the coil should release without twists or tangles. These turns start away from the end and work upwards towards your hand Finally. this end should have been "left outside the coil" at the beginning. the coil should be laid on the ground with the end used to start the coil underneath. p 513). Note: The wrapping turns do introduce twists into the rope. To make each turn form a neat loop. twist the rope slightly as you lay it in your hand. This technique of coiling a rope is also known as a Buntline or Gasket Coil Making the Coil: Start by leaving the end slightly longer than the coil ‐ so it remains outside the coil to avoid tangles.

Precautions: Avoid introducing twists by using either the Figure 8 Coil or the alternating over and under method shown in the animation. Starting from the mid point. Mountaineer's Coil: After the coil has been made. Both ends are held in one hand – with about six feet (two meters) hanging free. The result is a large coil. The finished coil can then be carried by tying the two ends around your body. The ends are used to wrap the coil and then tucked through and over the coil as shown in Frames 17 to 21. The coil is formed behind your neck picking up the doubled rope first with one of your outstretched hands and then the other. Climbing Rope: A Climbing Rope is long and heavy and requires special coiling technique's. the end is passed through the center of the coil several times to wrap the turns and keep the coil neat. The resulting coil is not as neat but maintains the rope ready for use and likely to run out with no tangles. Closely observe any rope as it is paid out to ensure there are no kinks or knots. The Coil is made with the rope doubled. made up of double strands laid in a Figure 8 pattern. the bulk of a climbing rope makes it hard to hold to complete the coil as shown in the animation. The coil is completed in the same way. hanging from your neck. That is because when completed.stack of overlapping Figure 8 turns. when undoing the coil it is critical to carefully undo these wraps to avoid a tangle. There are two common alternatives:  Butterfly Coil: The Butterfly Coil is made behind your neck so the weight is taken on your shoulders.
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. Because this technique requires the end to pass through the coil several times. the doubled rope is first laid loosely on the ground. The coil is then folded at the mid point ‐ where it passed behind your neck.

Wrap the long end about 8 more times around both the rope and the bight.
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Common Whipping Tying
Lay the twine against the rope and wrap the long end around the rope about 8 turns. Pull the short end to hide and secure the long one. Trim the ends off. Make a bight in the short end. During the whipping a loop is incorporated which is used to pull the final turn into the whipping. On the final turn pass the long end through the bight.
Common Whipping
This simple whipping technique can be done quickly.

is easy to learn and quick to make. the entire whipping can be made round the bight. p 546) is the classic simple whipping and can be tied with no needle. With a little practice. Wrapping a Bight for the Entire Whipping: From the start.13
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Common Whipping Details
Uses: The Common Whipping (ABOK # 3443. Techniques: There are several variations of this whipping:  Wrapping a Bight just for the 2nd Half: As shown here. then the original end just unwraps. and the appropriate size of whipping twine. For a rope that can be melted with heat. Ashley calls this the "Sailor's Whipping". Apply the Final Turns Using a Large Bight: For the second half. which is ideal if the end has already been melted. the long end is inserted into this bight and pulled into the whipping. lay the long end against the rope and use the bight to wrap the end and rope together until the bight is too small to make any more wraps.
. care must be taken to pull the bight only half way into the whipping. melt the end for additional security. When the final end is inserted into this bight. When the end has not been melted ‐ or is a material that cannot be melted by heat. This variation is the one that Ashley refers to as the "Common Whipping". some people prefer to wrap the final set of turns using a bight: for the second half. Then pull the long end to tighten the remnant of the bight. If pulled completely through by mistake. Finishing the Whipping: This whipping can be made very close to the end of the rope. After the second set of wraps.
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Advantages: This whipping looks very neat. Disadvantages: If one of the turns get snagged or cut. the whipping unravels very rapidly. it creates a very neat appearance with no visible ends. it is better to secure the end temporarily with a constrictor knot or a piece of tape (as shown in the animation). the exit point in the middle is almost invisible and the appearance of a neat stack is retained. Then trim off the excess when finished. When waxed twine is used and the ends are trimmed. the second half of the whipping is wrapped around a bight formed using the first end.

This is what binds the knot and makes it hard to undo. Constrictor
The Constrictor Knot consists of a simple Half Hitch which is gripped by an overlying turn of the rope. This page also links to two other pages which demonstrate alternative ways tie this knot.
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Options: Twisting.) deserves to be much more widely known and used. Fold the loops down around the center to form the Constrictor Knot. It is an excellent quick temporary whipping for a fraying rope's end and can be used to keep a rope's end together while it is
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Constrictor Knot (Twisting Method) Tying
Twist the rope to form a loose figure 8. Folding
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Constrictor Knot (Twisting Method) Details
Uses: The Constrictor Knot (ABOK # 1188. p 216. Using End.

jpg&Website=www. Disadvantages: It fails when tied against a flat surface ‐ it requires a curved surface for the binding turn to grip the Half Hitch.g. animatedknots. Alternatives: In addition to the Twisting Method. and it can be used to hold items together for gluing.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog. it has been used as a temporary hose clamp. the Constrictor Knot can be tied by the Folding Method.com/constrictor/index.being whipped. the method cannot be used when using a longer piece of rope or when the rope has to be first passed around the object to be tied. This is only for the photography. Rope Size: The pictures here show the rope tied in large diameter rope. http://www. It securely ties the neck of a sack or bag. It is normally tied in twine or other small diameter line.com
. Using the Twisting Method: The Twisting Method is ideal for short lengths.. and by Threading the End when tying this knot round a rail or bar.animatedknots. Release: The knot can be very hard to undo ‐ cutting the knot can be the only resort. When this is necessary. when using a piece of twine to secure a fraying rope's end. using them to protect your rope. the binding strand should be cut over the other constrictor strands. e. However.

p 290) is similar to the Clove Hitch except that the second Half Hitch is in the reverse direction. Cow Hitch Using Loops
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Cow Hitch. p 5). and down beside itself.
Cow Hitch (Lanyard Hitch) using the End Tying
Pass the rope around the object. back around itself. the Cow Hitch can be tied Using Loops. the Cow Hitch is also known as the "Lark's Head" – attributed to a literal translation from the French "tête d'alouette" (ABOK # 11. Cow Hitch
The Cow Hitch is two Half Hitches with the second Half Hitch different from the first here tied with the end. Uses:  Archery: To protect the bowstring from damage caused by the mechanical release. Names: In addition to "Lanyard Hitch"." The Clove Hitch and the Cow Hitch are close relatives with similar properties. Description: The Cow Hitch or Lanyard Hitch (ABOK # 1673. (Lanyard Hitch) using the End Details
Alternative: In addition to Threading the End. the knot is also known as the Lark's Foot. Neither should be trusted alone for critical applications. Nevertheless. Why Include it Here? It answers the question: "What happens when I tie a Clove Hitch but reverse the second turn?" Answer: "A Cow Hitch. Similar Knot: The Cow Hitch has a similar appearance to the Girth Hitch. The subsequent transformation from "Head" to "Foot" is less readily explained. which is tied with a sling loop and known by various names including Strap Hitch and Bale Sling Hitch. around the object in the reverse direction. the two ends of a short line are tied to the bowstring to form a "D‐Loop". Each end is attached to the bowstring using a Cow Hitch –
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For this purpose at least.
Pros and Cons: It is one of the quickest and easiest knots to learn but has relatively few critically useful applications. Although named the "Cow Hitch".animatedknots.animat edknots. Ashley comments (ABOK # 244.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Discussions in on‐line forums acknowledge this can fail and some have experimented with using a Constrictor instead. secured by a Clove Hitch. http://www.jpg&Website=www.com/cow/index.com
. It is just as likely to slip as the Clove Hitch but less likely to bind and be hard to untie. He went on to describe watching as a cow. walked in a circle that unwound and untied the Clove Hitch. p 44) that the Clove Hitch was used to secure cows more often. It can be used to secure a lanyard to a rope. the Cow Hitch appears to be better suited to the task. General: The Cow Hitch can be used as an alternative to the Clove Hitch.
made more secure by heating each end to from a "Blob".

Crown Knot Tying
Spread out the strands. continuing around in the direction of the rope's twist. and the wall directs the strands away from the rope. They are different because they are tied with respect to the rope. Other uses. They are in fact identical. When the end of a three‐stranded rope starts to fray. Tighen it to form the first part of a Back Splice. This protects the rope until the back splice can be replaced with a whipping. If the strands had emerged from a central button ‐ with no rope to determine the "direction".
. Choose one strand and. The crown directs the strands back down the rope. Crown Knot
The Crown Knot is the first part of a Back Splice and a component of several decorative knots. there would be no way to distinguish a Wall from a Crown. a crown should be tied immediately with a back splice to follow. lay it across its neighbor.
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Crown Knot Details
Uses: The Crown is the critical first part of a Back Splice. Repeat with the remaining strand tucking it under the first. Repeat with that strand. The Crown is also an essential component of several decorative knots including the Wall and Crown (Manrope Knot) and the Crown Sinnet Relationship to the Wall: The Wall and the Crown are very closely related.

tie another crown knot and tighten.
Crown Sinnet Knot Tying
Bind the four ends together. Keep repeating. When all the crowns are tied in the same direction the result is a spiral version. Tie a crown knot and tighten. Reverse direction. Turn the ends towards you.
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. Crown Sinnet
The Crown Sinnet is a family of knots all made using a series of Crown knots to create a thick decorative braid.

scoubidou. known as a "Barrel". boondoggle. In particular the name "Square Knot" is used for different knots in different places. Military lanyards usually use two stranded crown knots tied around a two‐stranded core. Lanyard Making Names: The making of lanyards goes by various names including: craftlace. The result is known a "Cobra" when the crowns alternate and a "Twisted Cobra" when same crown is repeated. and therefore four cords. Macrame Names: Unfortunately macrame uses totally different names. p 479) is tied by many of us as children.
. and Synet. etc. Structure: The sinnet is composed of a series of Crown Knots. The names employed depend on the craft. Sennit. The Crown Sinnet is probably the knot most frequently chosen. The version using alternating left turn and right turn crowns is called either a "Square Knot" or a "Box Knot". It is usually made with either three or four stands ‐ although more are possible. A four stranded Crown Sinnet is often started using only two pieces of cord. It converts lengths of string or colored plastic into a pleasingly solid braid. The version that repeats the same crown makes a spiral. were used. Finishing the Sinnet: The other end is completed by tying the cords to a ring or by securing the ends either by melting them or by Whipping them. Sinnet is also spelled Sennet. Such braids become fashionable from time to time as decorative bracelets for wrist and ankle. Starting the Sinnet: For this demonstration. four colors. The two versions of the Cobra are known as a Square Knot and a Spiral Stitch. The sinnet can then be started by laying the two cords across each other at their centers – the simplest way of making one end of the sinnet secure and neat.13
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Spiral version
Crown Sinnet Knot Details
Uses: The Crown Sinnet (ABOK # 2912 and # 2915. or as straps for umbrellas. and gimp.

Wrap three of four turns around the two poles in one axis followed by three or four turns in the other axis.
Diagonal Lashing Technique
Start with a single Timber Hitch around both poles. Diagonal Lashing
A Diagonal Lashing is used for securing diagonal braces to hold a structure rigid.
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. Finish with a Clove Hitch. Tighten the lashing by surrounding it with three or four frapping turns.

stand on the pole. These turns are known as Frapping Turns. Pulling them as tight as possible makes the Lashing more secure. the diagonal lashing is used to join two diagonal poles that are being used to brace a rectangular frame. p 343. Use: As shown on the right. but I'm indebted to Dana Holgate for the following: wrap the rope around a stick. Options: The animation shows the lashing made on poles that happen to be at right angles. The choice of a timber hitch is important. Tying it: An initial Timber Hitch surrounds both poles. The location of one diagonal in front and one behind explains the gap between the poles commonly found in the center. A clove hitch around one pole could not be used to pull the poles together and might come untied.) is used to lash two spars together. Sometimes there is a gap between the poles. the diagonal lashing is more appropriate. hold the stick across your thighs and then pull by straightening your legs. Unlike the Square lashing which works for right angle crossings. Pulling on the Timber Hitch closes the gap and allows the lashing to proceed with poles touching. However.13
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Diagonal Lashing Details
Use: The Diagonal Lashing (ABOK # 2115.
. Various techniques are recommended. Frapping Turns: The turns surrounding the lashing at right angles exert a tightening effect on the lashing. Under such circumstances a Square Lashing might be as effective. bend your knees. the diagonal lashing secures poles crossing each other at a variety of angles. when the angle between the poles is closer to 45 degrees.

Continue around and through the opening beside the tail. p 191). Leaving the end outside this loop ties a knot that Ashley gives as the other example of a "Single Bowline on the Bight" (ABOK # 1057..e. it functions as a noose so that the loop tightens under load. Similar Knots: Several other knots create a loop in the middle of a piece of rope including the Alpine Butterfly Loop. It is designed for strain in one direction only. Tying it: The first steps of the animation show that the tail is enclosed by the initial loop. the Bowline on a Bight. Figure 8 Directional Loop
The Figure 8 Directional Loop creates a loop in the middle of a rope. Pass the loop behind the standing end.
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Directional Figure 8 Loop Tying
Make a loop in the rope. This is an essential step in tying the Directional Figure 8 correctly. In fact a strain from the wrong end actually capsizes the knot into one that slides.
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Tighten
Dressed
Directional Figure 8 Loop Details
Uses: Ashley describes the Directional Figure 8 as the second of two examples of a "Single Bowline on the Bight" (ABOK # 1058. the Figure 8 Double Loop and. It creates a loop in the middle of a rope and is used as a load‐bearing knot by climbers to take strain in one direction only. i. p 191). The knot is then tightened and dressed so that the outer loop finishes inside its neighbor. the Dropper Loop. for fishing.

animatedknots.Advantages: The Directional Figure 8 is quickly tied and is designed to take a load in one direction only.animatedknots.jpg&Website=w ww.com/fig8directional/index.com
.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. the Alpine Butterfly Loop is preferred. It must not be used with the pull coming from the wrong end because of its propensity to capsize and constrict. http://www. For critical loads and when the load may be applied from either end. Disadvantages: The Directional Figure 8 can be difficult to undo after a shock load.

It is tied using a lanyard with a loop at each end secured to a carabiner with a Double Fisherman's bend.
Distel Hitch Tying
Use a lanyard with an eye at each end. Then continue around and through the top Half Hitch three more times. Balance the lengths and pull tight. Attach the carabiner.
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. Wrap the longer end around the climbing rope to make two Half Hitches. Distel Hitch
The Distel Hitch is a reliable <strong>Slide and Grip</strong> (friction) Hitch designed to take strain in only one direction.

it provides a nice ride. Similar Knots: The other slide and grip knots intended for load in only one direction include the Rolling Hitch. Although any safe loop would be acceptable. However. The Distel itself is based on a Clove Hitch but the "top" part of the hitch includes additional turns that form the spiral of rope responsible for gripping the main rope..php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. and the Vallard Tresse (or VT). Variations: The animation shows a "4 over 1" Distel – with four complete wraps in the top section. try the "4 over 1" first. the Icicle Hitch. the Distel is a recommended knot for the arborist: it is reasonably easy to tie. and both ends take the load. Either way. close inspection is appropriate to ensure that the hitch is tied correctly. http://www. the Klemheist. which makes it especially suitable for use in climbing. by arborists. the Schwabish. Advantages: Amongst these various slide and grip knots.anima tedknots. e. Experience and materials used will govern the choice. It is tied using a lanyard with a loop in each end. the length of the lanyard is not too critical. say.jpg&Website=www. This serves to emphasize that its structure is based on the Clove Hitch ‐ because that is what is first created. Tying it: The animation shows the Distel being tied from below.
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Distel Hitch Details
Uses: The Distel Hitch is a slide and grip knot used to ascend a climbing rope. the Vallard Tresse. the knot should be dressed to ensure that the two ends are similar in length. However. Like other knots supporting critical loads.animatedknots.com
.g. Blake's Hitch.com/distel/index. The experienced user will often start at the top. each loop is usually secured with a Double Overhand around the lanyard. The Distel is designed for tension in only one direction. writers also describe the Distel using three turns at the top – a "3 over 1" arrangement. Disadvantages: Some writers report that the Distel has a slightly greater tendency to lock up and be hard to slide than. This would be the recommended initial format. for safety.

Pull it tight to lock the two loops.
Double Figure 8 Loop ("Bunny Ears") Tying
With a long bight in the rope use two double loops to tie a Figure 8 knot. The two loops created are stable and resist slipping and changing size. it is easier to see the underlying structure of the Figure 8 knot. and over the whole knot. up. With the final locking turn loosened.
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. Then pass the end of the original bight under.
Figure 8 Double Loop "Bunny Ears"
The Double Figure 8 Loop creates two loops in the middle of a rope.

the Double Loop Figure 8 is stable.) is based on the simple Figure 8 knot (left).
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Double Figure 8 Loop ("Bunny Ears") Details
Structure: The Double Figure 8 Loop (ABOK # 1085.g. the French Bowline. The much larger one is passed around both anchor points.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. p 197. In one top‐roping technique.animatedknots. this ensures a more even distribution of load between the two anchor points. In the animation the two loops have been made small. Uses: The two loops can be used as an improvised seat. http://www. It is unlikely to slip so that one loop gets larger at the expense of the other loop.com
. the loops are made very unequal. In practice they are usually much larger. e. The center of this loop is then secured with a carabiner to the small loop. During rappelling..animatedknots.jpg&Website=w ww. Stability: Compared to some of the other double loop knots.com/fig8loopdouble/index. It is also useful for equalizing the load on two anchors.

Pull on both ropes to tighten the two knots against each other. Pass this end back through and pull tight.
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. it appears that four identical loops encircle the junction. When ropes of the same color are used. Tha Back View of the Double Fisherman's is extremely neat and symmetrical. Wrap one end around both ropes two full turns.
Double Fisherman's Knot (Grapevine Bend) Tying
Overlap the two ends. Next pass the other end two full turns around both ropes.
Double Fisherman's or Grapevine Bend
The Double Fisherman's provides a secure method for joining two ropes of similar size. The knot is relatively compact and therefore better than some alternatives when retrieving a climbing rope. Then pass this end back through these turns and pull tight.

However. 2. version is also used by fishermen to join two lengths of fishing line. pass over an obstruction relatively easily. compact knot suitable for use when retrieving an abseil. It can be used for a full rope‐length abseil. inspect it carefully. it can be tied wrongly and then fail. some authorities feel that the Flat Overhand Bend (EDK) is an answer to problem which does not
. p 50. If someone else ties it. been associated with its use. the Zeppelin Bend performs the same task but is much easier to undo because it does not jam. because it is created around another line. reliable. However. Inspection: The Double Fisherman's Knot (Grapevine Bend) is not complicated. use a Triple Fisherman's (on left). inspect it extremely carefully. For additional safety it is also used with an extra overhand knot in the tails. Cons: The Double Fisherman can lock up so tightly that it is effectively welded. The Figure 8 Bend may be bulkier ‐ especially when stopper knots are added for safety. Uses: The Double Fisherman's Knot (Grapevine Bend) is the way to form a Prusik Loop and is an excellent and reliable way of joining two climbing ropes. after which it is still possible to retrieve the rope. The triple. 1.13
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Double Fisherman's Knot (Grapevine Bend) Details
Structure: The Double Fisherman's. Pros: The Double Fisherman's is a well known. Bend (ABOK # 294. The Flat Overhand Bend (an overhand knot tied with both ends together with lengthy ends) is the rope join least likely to get stuck (picture on right). relatively easy to teach and inspect. perhaps wrongly. Dyneema or Kevlar/Technora. or even quadruple. In each stopper knot the rope is passed around a third time before being threaded back through the loops. If you tie it and your life depends on it. During testing it can roll over and fail and at least one accident has. Although it is regarded as a standard method of joining climbing ropes.) consists of two Strangle Knots (like double overhand knots) each tied round the other standing end. this structure may not be obvious. This is because the two ropes enter the knot at the same point and. It is commonly known as the "Euro Death‐Knot" (EDK) because when first encountered it was presumed to be dangerous. Nevertheless. Safety: For load‐bearing using modern high modulus ropes such as Spectra. therefore. or Grapevine. Its use as a join is approved and recommended by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA). It is however.

" http://www. It fails by rolling over at modest loads even when the ends are long! It has been associated with a number of deaths. moreover. Both of these knots have been extensively reviewed and tested by Thomas Moyer. and is deliberately not illustrated here.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. The Flat Figure 8 Bend is very similar but tied as a Figure 8 not an Overhand.jpg&Website =www. 3.com/doublefishermans/index.really require a solution and. it is far more dangerous despite its appearance.com
. He provides useful references to detailed accounts of accidents as well as the results of his tests in which both knots failed by flipping or rolling.animatedknots. the knot creates a size problem which makes it harder to overcome by sending a wave up the line. He also provides a balanced view of the role for these knots and the opinion that: "I don't believe the flat‐overhand will ever fail under body weight if it is tied well.animatedknots.

Double Matthew Walker Knot Tying
Start with a Wall Knot. Position each strand near the one to follow. the Matthew Walker. Blue follows gold under red and up through itself. Single. It is closely related to the Wall but makes a more bulky and more effective stopper knot. Gold follows red under blue and up through itself. and the Double Matthew Walker. Red follows blue under gold and up through itself. each tied with the strands of the rope: the Wall. Double Matthew Walker
The Matthew Walker provides a secure stopper in a rope which cannot be untied. Double Matthew Walker
. The final image shows a sequence of three stopper knots. Tighten carefully and re‐lay the rope.
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Wall.

When the wall is tightened and the strands laid up again to re‐form the rope. The Gold through the Red. which was used to start this animation . Matthew Walker: The Matthew Walker is a little simpler that the Double Matthew Walker.  The Wall: The simplest is the Wall (right). This is in striking contrast with the past when the Matthew Walker was widely used." The words themselves are now just echoes of a distant past. preferably with an elegant whipping. Double Matthew Walker: The Double Matthew Walker is illustrated in the animation. It creates the largest of this sequence of permanent stopper knots. It creates a stopper knot of intermediate size. Disadvantages: The Wall and both the Matthew Walkers all require the rope to be laid up again and then finished.
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Applications: Other than for decoration. and the beckets of tubs and buckets. p 118) provides a secure stopper that cannot be untied without unraveling the rope. They are illustrated in the final frame of the animation. and the Blue through the Gold. was used on "topmast rigging lanyards. modern yachts have virtually no use for a Matthew Walker." It.
. the Red through the Blue. it creates a small permanent stopper knot. It is included here because I have had multiple requests for it ‐ not for its intrinsic usefulness in boating today! Sequence of Stopper Knots: The Double Matthew Walker is a one of a sequence of knots that are created in the middle of a three‐strand rope. or the Double Matthew Walker. each strand would be brought up one strand earlier. bunt beckets (rope loop)." He goes on to quote Todd and Whall in Seamanship: "Amongst knots proper the Matthew Walker is almost the only one which it is absolutely necessary for the seaman to know. In the animation. "It is the most important knot used aboard ship. Ashley (ABOK page 118) states.Double Matthew Walker Knot Details
Uses: The Double Matthew Walker (ABOK # 681 ‐ 3.

stopper knot.
Double Overhand Knot
The Double Overhand Knot makes a reliable stopper knot. moderately large. the
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Double Overhand Stopper Knot Details
Uses: The Double Overhand Knot (ABOK # 516. Pass the end through it. Uses with Other Knots: In addition to acting as a stopper knot in the end of a rope. Figure 8. It forms the basis for other knots such as the Double Fisherman's Bend.
Double Overhand Stopper Knot Tying
Form a loop in the rope. Tighten the knot to make a secure stopper knot. Alternative Method: In addition to the technique shown in the animation. the Double Overhand can also be tied by threading the end of the rope through the coil (on left). It creates a reliable. This technique is the basis for tying other useful knots such as the Double Fisherman's Knot (right) and the Poacher's Knot or Double Overhand Noose.

a Bowline can shake loose. The short end of the Figure 8 Loop Follow Through is tied around the standing end. Therefore. 2.com
. 3. especially in boating. The Matthew Walker requires three or four strand rope because it is tied with the separated strands.Double Overhand Knot can also be used to increase the security of another knot: 1. the short end is tied round the adjacent part of the loop (picture on left).jpg&Website= www. Other Stopper Knots: The Figure 8 may be the most widely used. but it tends to come undone. Unless under load.com/doubleoverhand/index. after the strands are reassembled and whipped it cannot be just "untied". Its greatest use may be in smart installations such as rope handrails. http://www. To virtually eliminate this risk. The short ends of the Figure 8 Bend are both tied around their adjacent standing ends.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.animatedknots.animatedknots. The Ashley Stopper Knot deserves to be more widely used and known.

Note: in nylon tightening this knot alters the structure. Lubricate.
Dropper Loop Tying
Create a large loop in the middle of a line. Dropper Loop
‐ Δημιουργία θηλειάς. Open a hole in the center and pass the loop through the hole. It allows an additional fly to be attached to the line. wrap the loop around this crossover point about six times. Holding the center.
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. The Dropper Loop makes a secure loop in the middle of a line. hold the loop with your teeth. and pull the knot tight.

Clip it on to one side of the loop and rotate it instead of rotating a matchstick. If desired the loop can be made long enough to set a hook directly on it.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Pulling on each end forces the wrapped turns to redistribute the twists so that the inner strand becomes an outer wrap (not illustrated in this animation using rope). The big loop is then passed through the hole occupied by the matchstick. Whichever method is used. the knot changes its structure. The animation above shows the loop being wrapped round the overlap point that is held still with your fingers.com/dropperloop/index. animatedknots.com
. Tying it: There are two main methods of tying it. the knot should appear almost symmetrical either side of the loop. Alternatives: The same result can be obtained by keeping the loop still and twisting a matchstick in the overlap to make a spiral. Amos Baehr contributed an idea he discovered serendipitously when he tried a ballpoint pen instead of a matchstick: Use the clip in the cap of a ballpoint pen. Advantages: The Dropper Loop angles away from the line which helps to avoid tangles. Pulling the Knot Tight: When lubricated and pulled tight.jpg&Website=www. It can be used in your leader or tippet to provide an extra attachment point for an additional fly. The Dropper knot is also used on multi‐hook fishing lines.animatedknots. However. to minimize the risk of fouling and twisting this Dropper loop should not be too long.13
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Dropper Loop Details
Uses: The Dropper Loop creates a loop that stands out at right angles to the middle of a length of line. http://www. The weight of the pen is an advantage.

Working inside the loop.
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Duncan (Uni) Knot Details
Names: The Duncan Knot was originally named after its inventor Norman Duncan.
Duncan (Uni) Knot Tying
Pass the end through the eye. The Uni series can take the place of most other fishing knots if necessary. Lubricate. Form a complete loop alongside the standing line. It was also published later under the name Uni Knot by the outdoor writer Vic Dunaway as being a versatile knot that can have many applications. It is
. and slide the knot to the desired loop size. Trim the end. wrap the end around both lines five times. tighten so the loop spirals. Duncan (Uni) Knot
The Duncan (Uni) Knot is a versatile loop knot. With the loop on a post pull on the tag end and less hard on the standing line.

To join two lines a Uni‐knot is tied around the other line. Tying it: The animation shows that the Duncan Knot initially forms an adjustable loop.anima tedknots. Pros and Cons: The Duncan Knot works well with both braided and monofilament fishing lines. but if used to join two lines. When finally tightened.com/duncan/index. and with practice is fairly easy to tie in the dark. When tied a round a large diameter eye. When used for joining two lines (as in the Uni Knot system). http://www. a breaking strain around 75% is more likely.also known as a Grinner Knot and has the same appearance as a Hangman's Noose although it is different internally. each knot is tied around the other's standing end. it may retain strength well. For Snelling. The outer wraps become internal and vice versa. the knot is tied around the shank of the hook. like other knots where a line passes around itself.jpg&Website=www. the knot binds and becomes a fixed in proportion to the degree of tightening.animatedknots. Versatile: As described by Vic Dunaway it is the key component of his Uni Knot System – which can provide all of the applications needed for fishing with a single knot. When used to join two lines it is known as a Double Grinner or a Double Uni Knot Transformation: The Duncan (Uni) knot undergoes a transformation as it is tightened.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Claims that it retains a high proportion of line strength have been justified by recent testing arranged by Mack Martin that showed 82% of line strength.com
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or a rope to a bucket handle. Repeat the process for the remaining sets of tucks. Arrange strands. for example. Pass center one under a standing strand.
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. Unravel enough for 5 tucks (4 shown here). Pass the upper strand under the upper adjacent standing strand. Eye Splice
In three‐stranded rope. Pass lower one under lower adjacent standing strand. to secure a rope to the bow of a dinghy. Remove the tape. the Eye Splice creates a secure loop in the end of the rope.
Eye Splice Tying
Tape rope. It may used.

For mooring. The animation above only shows the threading of two complete tucks with the final image showing four tucks finished and tightened. however. and other long term or critical applications. The correct length to unravel is about 3 times the
. Esssential Preparation: Secure the end of each strand by heat. now. Modern synthetic materials. tend to be slippery and.13
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Eye Splice Details
Important: The Eye Splice and its variants are well described by Ashley (ABOK # 2725. p 445). Measure the length to be unraveled and secure the rope at that length with tape or twine. tape or whipping twine. towlines. a minimum of five complete "tucks" is required. seven tucks are recommended.

Spike: Alternatively. Tapering the tails: It used to be fashionable to gradually thin the strands for an additional few tucks. Alternative Taper: After sufficient tucks have been made for strength. one each side of the rope. However. they will then be in the correct place when you want to choose an end to thread next (Left). Handle each strand with care to retain its original twist. occasional. a spiked aluminum bar with a hollow end. it is then all too easy to get confused after it is threaded. Create the required size of loop and mark the rope. Cut and burn one more and splice the remaining strand before cutting and burning it too. the strands should be allowed to spread and fit the form of the standing strands. The following have all worked for me under different circumstances: Tape: One of the simplest methods is to merely wrap each end in masking tape (Right).e.diameter per "tuck". it is usually far less trouble to make another tuck than to cut them and re‐ burn them to stop them unraveling.5 inches. Hold the other two tails in your hand. for five tucks in half inch diameter rope.com/splice/index. they will be used up in the splice. In the illustration above the mark would be where the first tuck is to be threaded. pencils.anima tedknots. Technique: In tightly laid or large diameter rope. it is helpful to twist it to keep its original form.5 inches long. This can provide you with a short "spike" to help feed each strand under the standing end. i. I have used many different spikes including marlinspikes. True tapering of individual strands is rarely done now and should probably never be attempted by amateur. which opens up the standing strand. and needle nosed pliers. Finishing the Splice: If the ends have been cut to the correct length. In tarred hemp this made a very elegant tapered splice. The burned ends are usually slightly larger than the strand and this provides some additional security for the splice. use a suitable spike to open up a standing strand (Left). If they are a little too long.jpg&Website=www. after the first set of tucks.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog.. You then push the strand through inserted in the tail of the fid. Modern rope is sufficiently slippery to mean that the tapered tails tend to get dislodged and make the splice look very untidy. splice makers. Structure As in weaving. it may be difficult or impossible to pass each strand under the standing strand without a suitable tool. It may stay open long enough for the strand to be threaded. Holding the Rope: Having prepared the ends and chosen which strand to thread where. cut and burn one strand and then continue the splice with remaining two strands. In the process. and for seven tucks at least 10. http://www. the free ends tend to untwist and become untidy. After each strand is threaded. each of the strands is passed first under and then over alternate standing strands. pens.animatedknots.com
. Fid: The best tool is undoubtedly a fid (Right). leave the free strands at least 7.

However. the figure 8 is better than the simple overhand knot (picture left).. and the Double Figure 8 Loop. a vice. It is relatively easy to undo. is preferred to the Overhand Knot. Continue under and around the standing end.) provides a quick and convenient stopper knot to prevent a line sliding out of sight. Climbing: For climbing. up inside the mast. It would still be a stopper knot but smaller and much harder to undo when pulled tight. the Double Overhand is the preferred Stopper knot. e.
. p 95. occasionally. the Figure 8 is important to climbers because it is the basis for tying the Figure 8 Bend (Rope Join). which can bind so tightly that undoing it can be really difficult. both of which have the advantage of greater stability. but is not as secure as the Double Overhand.
Figure 8 (Flemish) Knot
The Figure 8 is a stopper knot ‐ it prevents the end of a rope sliding through a pulley or it can be used to add security to another knot. even after it has been jammed tightly against a block. and the Ashley. where safety is paramount. Its virtue is that. This virtue is also. Double Overhand
Structure
Figure 8 (Flemish) Knot Details
Uses: The Figure 8 (ABOK # 570.
Figure 8 (Flemish) Knot Tying
Pass the tail over itself to form a loop. it doesn't bind. Complete the knot by passing the tail down through the loop. The figure 8 can fall undone and then has to be retied. Figure 8. Comparison: As a stopper knot the Figure 8 should be compared to other knots commonly used as stoppers including the Double Overhand. the Figure 8 Loop Follow Through.g. Take care to avoid coming up through the loop which merely forms an overhand knot.
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Bend or Join
The Figure 8 Rope Join provides a secure. Follow the same path in reverse with the other rope. simple method for joining two ropes together. The Figure 8 Bend is dressed so that both the outermost turns are separated away from the two ropes they were crossing and tightened down inside their neighboring ropes. It is used in climbing. starting beside the tail and exiting beside the standing end. the structure of the knot remains unchanged as the loops tighten down tightly each end.
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Figure 8.
Figure 8 Bend (Flemish Bend) Tying
Start by tying a loose Figure 8 knot in one of the ropes. or Flemish. but creates a relatively bulky knot. is fairly easy to undo.

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Loaded
Figure 8 Bend (Flemish Bend) Details
Uses: The Figure 8. http://www.ani matedknots. Dressed this way the knot withstands a load better. However. It is reasonably easy to remember. Inspection: Ensure that there are two strands beside each other at each part of the knot. each end should be tied in a double overhand stopper knot around the other standing end ‐ see illustration to the left. Final Dressing: To ensure that the knot is tied correctly. tie. pull it and observe that it tightens neatly and symmetrically. it should not be used with ropes that differ much in size and for safety the ends should be longer.com
. or Flemish.g. and simple way to join two ropes. Bend (ABOK # 1411. Pros and Cons: The advantage of Figure 8 Bend is that even after considerable strain it remains relatively easy to undo.. Dress the knot as described above. and check.) provides a safe. e.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.animatedknots. Then. yourself (!). Safety: For critical loads. it is sensible to tie it in the "Flat" form shown. for taking a load. for real security.com/fig8join/index. p 258. Finally. this knot should be carefully dressed so that the two outermost turns are brought in snug against the ropes they enclose – as a result the turns then finish on the other side of the turns they accompany.jpg&Website=www.

twisting. Then start at the free end and lay the rope out in overlapping figure 8 layers so that it will run out freely without tangling. or knotting. Then start at the free end and lay out the rope in the Figure 8 Flake.
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Figure 8 Flake Details
Uses: Flaking a rope is to arrange it on the deck ready for easy use.
Figure 8 Flake Coiling
First remove all twists from the rope. First start at the attached end and work along the length of the rope to the free end. Technique: The Figure 8 Flake is often used when a rope has been coiled and there is doubt about it running out freely ‐ for example if the coil has been made with all the turns in the same direction. p 517) allows the rope to be pulled rapidly off the deck with minimal risk of kinking. carefully shaking out all of the twists. It is also the best way to store a hose on the ground. Applications: It can be used: to lay out the furling line for a roller jib prior to unfurling the jib. Figure 8 Flake
The Figure 8 Flake provides a method of laying out a rope on deck so that the rope will run out freely without twists. or to ready a dock line in preparation for passing the end ashore. to prepare an anchor rope before dropping the anchor. knots. Two complete passes of the rope are usually necessary.
. The Figure 8 Flake (ABOK # 3110. or tangles.

Care is required to avoid catching turns of the first layer.
. a second layer of figure 8's can be laid at right angles to the first.Variations: For a long line in a confined area.

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. It is used when the Figure 8 Loop is being linked to a closed ring or eye. Follow the original Figure 8 around the entire knot in reverse. or secured round a bar. Pass the tail around the attachment point.
Figure 8 Follow
The Figure 8 Follow Through creates a Figure 8 loop. Exit beside the standing end to complete a two stranded Figure 8 knot.
Figure 8 Follow Through Tying
Start by tying a loose Figure 8 knot. The Figure 8 Follow Through is dressed so that both the outermost turns are separated away from the two ropes they were crossing and tightened down inside their neighboring ropes.

a nimatedknots. for load bearing.Figure 8 Follow Through Details
Uses: The Figure 8 Follow Through allows the simple and reliable Figure 8 loop to be tied to a ring. tie. or your own harness.jpg&Website=www. Then. it is sensible to tie it in the "Flat" form shown. this knot is shown above with a short tail end.animatedknots. Safety: For photography.com/fig8follow/index. it is quicker and simpler to tie it like a Figure 8 knot using a bight instead of the end (picture on right) The Directional Figure 8: When a Figure 8 loop is being created to take a load parallel to the rope. However. Dress the knot as described above. pull it and observe that it tightens neatly and symmetrically. http://www. and check. a carabiner.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. It is reasonably easy to remember. p 190). When completed it forms a Figure 8 Loop (ABOK # 1047. the end should be secured with a stopper knot around the standing end (see picture on left). for taking a load. For safety the end should be longer and. this knot should be carefully dressed so that the two outermost turns are brought in snug against the ropes they enclose – as a result the turns then finish on the other side of the turns they accompany. The Figure 8 Loop: When the knot can be dropped over a post. Dressed this way the knot is better able to withstand a load. Final Dressing: To ensure that the knot is tied correctly.com
. the Directional Figure 8 Knot works well (picture left) Inspection: Ensure that there are two strands beside each other at each part of the knot.

Figure 9 Loop Knot Tying
Form a bight. To dress the knot. It is similar to the Figure 8 Loop but is less liable to jam and claimed to be stronger.
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Figure 9 Loop Knot Details
How to Tie the Figure 8 Loop Knot
. Instead of coming up through the loop to make a Figure 8 Loop. bring the outer turns in and tighten them. Wrap the bight around both ends to form a loop. Figure 9 Loop
The Figure 9 Loop makes a secure loop. pass the bight around again and then down through the loop to make the Figure 9 Loop.

Disadvantages: It uses more rope than the Figure 8 Loop and is more confusing to tie. Advantages: The knot avoids sharp bends and. it appears as though several coils are encircling a pair of ropes. flexible ropes and is harder to tie in heavier or stiffer ropes. Once tied. however. It is particularly suitable for use in smaller. It creates a strong loop. In climbing it is used as an end knot. Final Dressing: The animation shows the knot being tied in the elegant "Flat" form that makes structure easier to recognize. Tying it in practice: The Animation shows how the outer turns are pulled in. reasonably easy to untie. and can be used to attach a rapelling rope to an anchor. When further tightened.
. the knot should be dressed and tightened so that the two outermost turns are brought in snug against the ropes they enclose (Frames 9 and 10). therefore. the rope retains about 70% of its strength.Uses: The Figure 9 Loop (right) resembles the Figure 8 Loop (left).

close to 50%. p 294).
Girth Hitch (Strap Hitch) Tying
Pass the loop of the strap around the harness. e. particularly if two straps are directly knotted to each other. It is also known as the Lark's Head. and Lanyard Hitch.jpg&Website=www. e.animatedknots.com
.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Familiarity: The Girth Hitch should seem familiar because tying it employs the procedure we use to link two elastic bands. Thread the other end of the strap through the loop. This page links to two other pages showing how to tie related knots.g.animat edknots. the Cow Hitch.g. The two bands can be dressed to resemble either a Square (Reef) Knot or to take the form shown in the animation. Uses: The Girth Hitch attaches a sling or a webbing strap loop to your harness or to another sling. To join two slings when strength is a concern. the knot must be arranged to resemble a Square Knot when it is then known as a "Strop Knot". or rope. It is also often employed when slings are used to connect anchor points to a static rope in a top‐rope set‐up.
Girth Hitch (Strap Hitch)
The Girth Hitch is used to attach the loop of a webbing strap to your harness or another piece of webbing strapping. Make sure the strap lies neatly and then pull it tight. Bale Sling Hitch. and the Lanyard Hitch. This familiarity provides a useful lesson. when tied in the form used in the animation where one strap passes straight through and the other forms a collar around itself.com/girth/index. Strength: The Girth Hitch weakens a sling. or rope. Lark's Head (and Lark's Foot).. Because it resembles the Cow Hitch it is. http://www. strap. Ring Hitch) (ABOK # 1694. regrettably. sometimes known by names that more properly belong to the Cow Hitch. strap.
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Girth Hitch (Strap Hitch) Details
Structure: The Girth Hitch (Strap Hitch. This loss of strength is worse. use a carabiner – not a Girth Hitch.. To preserve strength when linking two slings.

it is usually followed by second Half Hitch." Comparison: The animation shows the close similarity between:    The Overhand Knot – tied in the end of a rope. The Half Knot – a binding knot – first part of a Square (Reef) Knot. p 14) as "tied with one end of a rope being passed around an object and secured to its own standing part with a Single Hitch. Half Knot
Extra
Half Hitch
Half Hitch Details
Uses: Ashley described the Half Hitch (ABOK # 50.
Half Hitch Tying
Form a loop around the object.
.g. a Hitching Post. e. These steps illustrate the usual method of tying Half Hitches. The Half Hitch – attaches a rope to something. Not secure alone. Half Hitch. Pass the end around the standing end and through the loop. Add a second Half Hitch to make the knot secure. Half Hitch
The Half Hitch is tied round an object and back to itself.. Tighten into a Half Hitch which is designed to take a load (Arrow) on the standing end.
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. It is customary to pass the rope the same way around to make both Half Hitches. Recommendations: Although two Half Hitches do make a complete "Hitch".php?Categ=basics&LogoImage=LogoGrog.animatedknots. This creates a Clove Hitch around the standing end. When the second Half Hitch is reversed it creates a Cow Hitch round the standing end. it is better to begin by first passing the rope around the post or bollard a second time to make the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches.com/halfhitch/index. In this animation the second Half Hitch shows how it is customarily tied ‐ wrapping it round the standing end and tucking it under itself.Tying it: As shown in the animation it can be capsized from looking like an overhand knot into the normal look of a Half Hitch. http://www. This is more secure and provides easier control of the load while tying the Half Hitches.anim atedknots. Two Half Hitches: The first Half Hitch is nearly always followed by a second – or more.jpg&Website=www.

being the first movement of the Reef or Square Knot. Add a second Half Knot to make the complete knot ‐ the Square (Reef) knot.
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The Half Knot is a binding knot used to join two ropes ‐ the first part of the Whole Knot ‐ the Square (Reef) knot.g." Comparison: The animation shows the close similarity between:    The Overhand Knot – tied in the end of a rope. Pass one end over and then under the other to make the Half Knot ‐ which takes the load (arrows) in both ropes.. The Half Knot – a binding knot – first part of a Square (Reef) Knot. Half Knot Tying Cross the two ends over each other. "Right over Left". If tied in the air ‐ it cannot bind and if it is allowed to capsize into the Half Hitch it will slip. e.
Tying it: As shown in the animation one end is wrapped round the other to produce a symmetrical knot. Half Knot Half Knot Details
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Square (Reef)
Uses: Ashley described the Half Knot (ABOK # 48. p 14) as "a binding knot.. The Half Hitch – attaches a rope to something. The symmetry is important because the knot can only "bind" when tied like this. a Hitching Post.g. This is important because to correctly tie the Square (Reef) Knot the next Half Knot must be "Left over Right". Remember to take note of which way you tied it. When the second Half Knot is a repeat of the first. it creates a Granny Knot. Two Half Knots: The first Half Knot is nearly always followed by a second – or more. e.
. Half Hitch.

It must never be used for critical loads. the result is called the Solomon Bar (ABOK # 2496. Macrame: In Macrame. its use should be restricted. the result is a spiral or Bannister Bar (ABOK # 2494.com/halfknot/index. is notorious for its ability to capsize and slip. Depending on how it is tied it is known by other names. p 400). p 400).jpg&Website=www.animatedknots.php?Categ=basics&LogoImage=LogoGrog. The knot created. the Square (or Reef) knot. When tied with repeated identical Half Knots.com
. when tied with alternating left and right Half Knots.anim atedknots.Recommendations: Although two Half Knots make a satisfactory "Knot". http://www. the Half Knot is frequently tied around a central core of two or more strands.

The two ends are then pulled to tighten the loops for traction. the knot possesses minimal locking action and could never live up its name. tighten. Handcuff Knot
The Handcuff Knot is tied around the wrists or ankles when rescuing a trapped victim. Use: In Search and Rescue Operations.. Then thread each loop through the other loop and tighten.
. The two loops are placed around the wrists or the ankles. It can also be used to restrain an animal or drag an animal carcass. Caution: This method of applying traction to limbs is potentially traumatic and must be used only when alternative lifting methods cannot be employed. Insert the victim's limbs into the loops.g. However. the Handcuff Knot is an invaluable tool when rescuing someone trapped. e. in a crevice. and apply traction. p 206) for use as a handcuff.
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Handcuff Knot Details
Origin: This knot was described by Ashley (ABOK # 1134.
Handcuff Knot Tying
Use the rope to form two identical loops. Tying it: As shown in the animation the initial stages are exactly the same as those used when using Loops to tie a Clove Hitch. For added security the two ends can be tied together with one or more Overhand Knots. Overlap them as though tying a Clove Hitch.

Hasty Webbing (Emergency) Harness Tying
Tuck a loop of the strap into the waistband. Secure it with a Square (Reef) knot backed up with Half Hitches. Lift with a carabiner through the loop and waist turns. around the thighs. through the initial loop and around the waist to use up the strap.
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Hasty Webbing (Emergency) Harness Details
Structure: The Hasty Webbing Harness enables a temporary lifting harness seat to be constructed from a piece of webbing strapping.
. It creates a temporary webbing seat for use in an emergency. Pass both ends back between the legs. Hasty (Emergency) Webbing Harness
The Hasty Webbing Harness is made from a length of webbing strap.

. Also. For security the Square (Reef) knot must be backed up with a pair of Half Hitches either side of the Square (Reef) knot. Form a loop about six inches away from the center of the webbing and tuck the loop into the waistband. the entire harness doesn't fail. round each leg and round the waist. Improvements: I am indebted to Boyd Hoyle for the following suggestions. This means that the final knot will be tied above one hip. Alternative Harness: Alternative webbing harnesses can be found online such as the Swiss Seat which employs a similar principle.Technique: Approximately twenty feet of webbing strap is required. tie it off in additional locations..g. Square knots are best avoided in safety applications. e. This means that if one piece of the webbing is cut. Use a Water Knot instead and still back it up with two Half Hitches either side.

Pull the tail to release. Highwayman's Hitch
The Highwayman's Hitch is a quick‐release knot.
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Highwayman's Hitch Details
Origin: Apocryphally.
. The Tumble and Mooring are also described here. Similar Knots: Many quick‐release hitches have been described. Of the three. the animation uses the standing end to make the initial bight and then remains passive while the second bight wraps around it. robbers were said to use the Highwayman's Hitch for a quick escape on horseback and it has probably survived because of this tantalizing name. Tying it: For easy comparison with the Tumble Hitch. Tighten to secure the knot and take the load. probably falsely. and then pass a bight of the standing end through it. Tradition has it.
Highwayman's Hitch Tying
Hold an initial bight of the rope against the pole. Pass a bight of the tail in front of the pole through the first bight. the Tumble Hitch is the best. that it was used to secure a horse for a rapid departure. Place a second bight behind the pole and around the initial bight. It is more common to position the wrapping loop first.

might grab at the adjacent line and trigger a fatal fall. it makes more sense to learn and use the Tumble Hitch which is more trustworthy. Uses: It might be reasonable to use a Highwayman's Hitch to briefly tie up a kayak while getting into it. frightened by a sudden slip or jerk. Quick release knots should not be used for retrieving a climbing rope because there are recommended alternatives: 1. A climber. 4. 2. 3.Real Danger: Quick release hitches share a major fault: entanglement of the free tail with the moving load can trigger abrupt release.
. However.

Rightly or wrongly it now goes by Hunter's name ‐ and it has been give the number 1425A in the revised version of Ashley's book.
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Back view
Hunter's Bend Details
Uses: The Hunter's Bend is one in a family of knots based on interlocking overhand knots. Hunter's Bend
Hunter's Bend is one of a family of knots based on interlocking overhand knots. Pass each end over itself and over the other rope. Dr. The Ashley and the Hunter's consistently jammed tight
. Essentially these knots employ interlocking overhand knots with the ends threaded through or across the middle. It can be hard to untie after being heavily loaded. Delaney tested these bends and the Carrick Bend for their tendency to jam. It joins two ropes of roughly the same size. He heavily loaded the knots tied in 1/16 inch braided nylon. Thread each rope across the middle under both ropes and then above itself. However. the Ashley. and the Alpine Butterfly Bend. Interlock the two bights. the knot had been described in 1975 by Phil Smith who had used it for more than thirty years on the San Francisco waterfront as the "Rigger's Bend". Pull tight to form the finished bend. Edward Hunter described it in 1978. It is used to join two ropes together of roughly the same size. The back view shows how the two ends are enclosed in the knot. David M. Similar Knots: The Hunter's Bend is remarkably similar to several other bends including the Zeppelin.
Hunter's Bend Tying
Form a bight in each rope.

com/hunters/index. The Hunter's tends to jam and offers no unique advantage to justify its use. it is tied easily by wrapping the rope round the hand. Choice: The similarity to other bends employing interlocking overhand knots invites confusion ‐ and mistakes. and the Carrick could all be untied easily using fingers and fingernails. it would seem prudent to avoid the Ashley and the Hunter's. Tying it: The arrangement of the interlocking loops and the path of the ends through the center are critical. the Zeppelin. it is tied easily by wrapping the rope round the hand. Amongst the family of bends based on linked overhand knots. Similarity to other bends employing interlocking overhand knots invites confusion ‐ and mistakes. We recommend the Zeppelin because it resists jamming and the Alpine Butterfly Bend because.ani matedknots. http://www.and would have had to be cut to release them.animatedknots. The Alpine Butterfly Bend. uniquely.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog.com
.jpg&Website=www. We prefer the Alpine Butterfly Bend because. uniquely.

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10 Options: Loop Method. Pass the loop behind both ends and hook it over the pole. Here. This page provides a link to how to tie same knot using the end of the rope. Tighten the knot. it is tied by passing a loop over the end of a pole. Icicle Hitch (Loop Method)
The Icicle Hitch is an excellent slide and grip knot. Leave a loop hanging and pass the end of the rope back over the pole alongside the standing end. The final load should be parallel to the pole. Using End
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Icicle Hitch (Loop Method) Tying
Wrap the rope around the pole four times moving away from the pole end. It is possibly the most secure <strong>Slide and Grip</strong> knot.

animatedknots. it can also be tied by Threading the End Uses: The Icicle Hitch is used when force is applied parallel to a post or pole in only one direction. Alternatives: The Icicle Hitch can be tied by two methods.jpg&Website=www.animat edknots. The only difference is that the other knots are tied using a loop of rope. In August of 2009. Advantages: The Icicle Hitch grips a smooth surface so well that it even works on a tapered surface such as a marlinespike ‐ hence its name.com/icicle/index.com
.Icicle Hitch (Loop Method) Details
Structure: The Icicle Hitch is almost identical to the knot described by Ashley to hoist a spar (ABOK # 1762. p 299) and to the Klemheist. http://www.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog. In addition to Dropping a Loop over the end of the pole. it was fully reviewed in Practical Sailor. They found it to be superior to other slide and grip knots including the Rolling Hitch.Pros and Cons: It is relatively easy to tie and can be used over a bar or at the end of a pole.

or swivel. Pass the end back through the loop beside the eye. when attaching a leader to a fly. It is commonly used to fasten the leader to the fly. Because it is harder to tie in heavier lines it is not recommended if you are using over 30 lb test line. The "improved" version shown here includes an extra tuck under the final turn (step 9).
Improved Clinch Knot Tying
Pass the end of the line through the eye. It provides a good method of securing a fishing line to a hook. lure.
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Improved Clinch Knot Details
Uses: The Improved Clinch knot is one of the most widely used fishing knots.. Then pass the end under the final turn. Wrap it around the standing end about five complete turns. Tighten the knot and trim the end. e.g. Improved Clinch Knot
The Improved Clinch Knot is used to join fishing line to a hook or a lure.
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animatedknots. Although five or more turns are recommended. rotate the hook or lure to obtain the desired number of twists. with the other hand. It is particularly suited for attaching a small diameter tippet to a heavy wire hook. with heavier lines this may be reduced to four.jpg&Website=ww w. Pulling on the line forces the wrapped turns to redistribute the twists so that the inner strand becomes an outer wrap (not illustrated in the animation using rope). The extra final tuck improves your chances of holding a strong fish.Tying it: Wind the loops in a neat spiral round the standing line and hold the loops under your fingers as you wind the line on.animatedknots. Alternative: Another method of tying it is to hold the Line and Tag End in your fingers and. When tightened the tag end is actually gripped closely against the hook. http://www. Pulling the Knot Tight: When lubricated and pulled tight.com
. Advantages: The Improved Clinch knot is regarded as a fisherman's reliable standby.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. the knot changes its structure.com/improvedclinch/index.

Pass the rest of the cord through the loop and pull it back down in the direction of the expected load. French Prusik) Knot Details
History: The Klemheist is a derivative of the original Prusik knot (on left).
Klemheist (Machard. Pass the loop around the main rope.
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Klemheist (Machard. with the load released it can easily be slid up or down. laying each turn on neatly. Make three complete turns. French Prusik) Knot Tying
Use a piece of cord formed into a loop.
. When loaded it grips the climbing rope. Klemheist
The Klemheist is a <strong>Slide and Grip</strong> (friction) knot related to the original Prusik knot but designed to take strain in only one direction.

p 299). Do not grip the knot itself and pull because the knot then slips. Risk: Only pull on the Prusik Loop. Ashley did not name this knot and did not describe the slide and grip feature. 5 or 6 mm cord around the climbing rope. i.animatedknots..com/klemheist/index. test it to see that it both grips and releases well. Rope Size: These knots must be made using a rope smaller than the load bearing rope. e.a nimatedknots. Structure: The knot requires a "Prusik Loop" which is constructed by joining the two ends of a length of rope using a Double Fisherman's or a Triple Fisherman's.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. http://www. It may be the preferred choice when the load is known to be in one direction only.com
. The Autoblock (Machard Tresse) and the Bachmann perform a similar function but both require a locking carabiner.It appears to be identical to the knot described by Ashley for securing a loop to a vertical pole (ABOK # 1762. Slide and Grip Knots: The Klemheist is a good example of the family of "Slide and Grip" knots. However.e.jpg&Website=www. Variations: With these knots the number of turns should be increased or decreased to suit the ropes and the conditions. The effectiveness of these knots diminishes as the sizes of the two ropes approach each other. Similarly with the Bachmann: don't pull on the carabiner because this quickly releases the grip.g. before using any Slide and Grip knot..

Lanyard Knot
The Lanyard Knot forms a loop in the middle of a piece of rope.
Lanyard (Diamond) Knot Tying
Start with a bight in the rope.
. Pass the other end under and around the loop to tie a Carrick Bend. (ABOK # 787. also known as the Diamond Knot and Friendship Knot. In one end form a loop. p 141.) makes a fixed loop in the middle of a piece of rope.
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Lanyard (Diamond) Knot Details
Name: The Lanyard Knot. It looks as though two lines are passing through a separate collar. Pass this end around outside the bight and up through the center of the Carrick Bend. It is frequently used as a component of a knife lanyard. Do the same with the other end and then tighten both ends to form the knot.

away from the loop.
.Structure: Steps 1 to 6 of the animation show how the ends of the loop are joined together with a Carrick Bend. Each end is then wrapped around outside the loop and up through the center. The resulting appearance creates the strong impression that the two ropes are passing through a collar. Use: The Lanyard Knot is often used as a decorative component of a Knife Lanyard. This pleasingly symmetrical knot forms the center of the Lanyard Knot.

Lighterman's Hitch
The Lighterman's Hitch is a simple robust way of securing a tow line. Wrap an extra turn around the bollard.
Lighterman's (Tugboat) Hitch Tying
Wrap the rope twice around the bollard. Pass a bight under the standing end and over the bollard. it is commonly finished with two Half Hitches around the standing end. It can be safely released without risk of jamming.
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. The Lighterman's Hitch is secure if sufficient turns are employed. However. Pass a bight under the standing end and over the bollard and continue adding more turns as needed.

com/lightermans/index. For larger loads an extra initial turn can be used.php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog. http://www. The Tensionless might have an advantage if the load approaches the breaking strain but only if the turns are passed around a large diameter bollard and the tail is secured away from the standing end to avoid the kink caused by securing the Tensionless to it. No knot is tied ‐ instead the rope is passed partially round the standing end in one direction and then in the other – each time dropping a bight over the bollard.jpg&Website=www. Advantages: The beauty of the Lighterman's Hitch lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it can be safely untied and eased out. Similar Knots: The knot closest to the Lighterman's is the Tensionless – which merely consists of many turns wrapped round a suitable post.com
. Tying it: The version shown here starts with two initial turns (often called "a Round Turn"). As each turn is removed. the tail can be eased to determine whether the load is threatening to cause the remaining turns to slip. This provides a reliable way of taking the initial strain and is often enough to control a load while the hitch is completed. tree.animatedknots. Of these two knots we prefer the Lighterman's for its neat use of alternating turns that reduce rotational stress on the post.
Add
Two Half Hitches
Lighterman's (Tugboat) Hitch Details
Uses: The Lighterman's Hitch is unusual in its approach to taking a heavy load. or bollard. animatedknots.

Long Bury 12­Strand Rope Splice
How to mark. Pull these six strands out of the rope and cut them off close to the rope. Tuck the tapered tail into the tool and pull it through the rope.
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. choosing alternate pairs. and thread the end for a Long Bury Splice. Pass the splicing tool up the hollow core of the rope.
Long Bury Splicing
For tapering mark 6 strands. Smooth out the rope to bury the end. taper.

for a 20 strand hollow braid. These ropes include: High‐Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE). Technora. 20. The strength of the splice relies on the long tail being gripped by the standing end. high modulus. In fact both the Brummel and the Long Bury have a critical feature in common: they both derive their strength from the long buried tail. several requirements must be met to achieve both reliability and strength:  Length of bury: Both Brion Toss and McCarthy and Starzinger recommend that the length of the buried tail should be 72 times the rope's diameter. When tested to destruction. or Aramid fibers. However. The loose weave results in the angle of the fibers being nearly parallel to the axis with minimal kinking.g. Long Bury technique: The animation shows how to tie a Splice using the Long Bury technique – with no "Lock". Vectran.g. some of the load has already been transferred from the outer braid to the inner. This is about three and a half full fid lengths (a full length fid is 21 times the rope's diameter. single braid ropes.) The very slippery Spectra and Dyneema require this long bury. 12. 16.
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Long Bury Splicing Details
Warning: in practice use a much longer tail and a more gradual taper – see below. e. for Polyester. Kevlar. As the fiber angle becomes less favorable.. the Long Bury splice should not be a weak point – the standing end of the rope may break first. 8. Requirements: At first glance this seems to be a simple way of making an eye splice – just thread the end up the middle. the strain is progressively transferred from the standing end to the two lines of the eye. Taper: A tail with no taper creates a weak point because the square end of the buried tail abruptly changes the angle of the rope's fibers. Material: This splicing technique is particularly suitable for un‐sheathed. This long taper means that the load is progressively transferred to the tail accompanied by a gradual change in the angle of the fibers in the standing end. In practice a much more gradual taper is made by marking every fifth pair or. However. e.. about half this length is sufficient. The splicing technique described here imposes almost no kinking or compression on the rope's fibers and breaking strains in the 90 ‐ 100% range are to be expected. or 24‐strand. or Twaron. We prefer to reserve the name Brummel for the Locked Splice and use Long Bury Splice to describe this splice. loosely woven. The ropes have impressive strengths but they also have impressive drawbacks: knots or kinks can reduce the breaking strain of some materials to a mere 30%. alternate fifth and sixth pairs. Nomenclature: Some authors refer to this as a Brummel ‐ a Brummel without a lock.g. Liquid Crystal Aromatic Polyester (LCAP).. Dyneema or Amsteel. Nomex. e. The short lengths were used here just for photography. Spectra. The animation shows a short taper with the marks placed on alternate strands.

Whipping: For the greatest security. There is no reliable formula for predicting the result because the settings used in the manufacturing process vary the tightness/looseness of the hollow braid construction. Use this information to calculate the length of rope required and try to make an identical splice on the other end.g. It is a quick and reliable way to lock the splice together in the right position. climbers. The two ends of the stitching are then tied together. many riggers. routinely use the Locked version. stitching adds nothing. The recommended stitching is a serpentine zigzag right through the rope and buried tail. This stitching is made up in one direction followed by a similar return pattern back down with the rope rotated 90 degrees. Locking: The Locked Brummel provides stability. Measure how much the splice has shortened the end of the rope. the critical load is only encountered occasionally. 15 feet. However. Before making the first splice. and inquisitive fingers. Nevertheless. just like the stitching. it adds no strength. Measure again. may displace the tail – even pulling it completely out of the rope – wrecking the ability of the splice to withstand a maximum load.
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Stitching: For a critical breaking strain. Then measure the lengths to be used for the eye and the tail and make the splice. e. the splice should be whipped at the throat – the point where the two ropes exit from the splice to form the eye. pulled into the splice. shaking. How could it? The Long Bury technique achieves about 100% of the breaking strain. The following technique works when preparing rigging for a mast.
Shortening: The long buried tail expands the rope and shortens it. Apply enough load to "reset" the braid the way it will lay in use. However. make a mark well away from the end.
.. In the interim. and trimmed. and arborists. movement.

However.
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. Masthead Knot Mat
The Masthead Knot. Using the same end (for photography two ropes are used) follow the same path around a second time.
Masthead Knot Mat Tying
Form three similar loops. when the rope is passed around a second time it makes a pleasing small mat. Thread the end under and over across the middle to lock the structure. enables stays to be tied to the top of a temporary mast. Weave the two outer loops across the center using a strict over and under sequence. Tuck in the end and secure it. or Jury Mast Knot.

If I ever had to rig a jury mast I think I would try Rolling Hitches.13
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Masthead Knot Mat Details
Uses: The Masthead Knot (ABOK # 1167. However. Maybe! Many authorities certainly described this. However. I would love to hear from someone who has had the experience of having to rig a Jury Mast. For this purpose the two ends were securely joined to make a fourth loop and guy lines were threaded through each loop to provide a two to one purchase for each guy.
. Perkins reported that on rough cut timber their knot held well. it remains here. Answer Received: I finally received my answer (Dec 2011). Ashley emphasizes how prone this knot would be to slip. However. They modified the knot using two additional turns woven around the bases of the links. Easy to Make: The Masthead Knot is described here because it is delightfully easy to make – the initial pattern can be made more quickly than almost any other mat. With such evidence this knot could be located in the scouting or boating sections. Contributor Larry Perkins described using the Masthead Knot with his father to set Poles for various construction projects. because it is more commonly used for decoration. p 212) is described as being useful when rigging stays to the head of a temporary jury mast. it lacks the radial symmetry of other patterns and is probably tied more often for its convenience than for its perfection.

However. glue. When the mat is purely decorative.Additional Turns: The animation employs two colors to show up the structure and there is space left between the turns. for a more pleasing appearance. the junction should be concealed under another turn as demonstrated in the animation. The mat then has a thicker section and is less suitable as a table mat. The entire mat is then tightened to eliminate space between the turns. Whichever method is chosen. In practice. the two ends can be heated in a flame and fused together. Another way to finish the mat is to attach each end to the neighboring turn using needle and thread. one or more additional turns are added using the same technique. to do this an end has to be passed across other turns. a single longer piece of cord is used and.
. or twine and constrictor knots. Finishing the Mat: The two ends can be secured in one of several ways. and the material is one that melts.

Monkey's Fist Tying
Wrap three turns around your fingers (metal here). It is also sometimes used on the end of a heaving line. Tie a knot in the end and tuck it into the center. Make three more turns locking the previous turns and remove fingers. Make three more turns around the first ones.
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. Pass the end through the middle. Then tighten every turn. It is decorative and fun to make. this can be hazardous if you are on the receiving end. Monkey's Fist
The Monkey's Fist makes a neat ball on the end of a rope. Pass the end through the middle. However.

This allows the weighted Monkey's Fist to be
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Monkey's Fist Details
Uses: The Monkey's Fist (ABOK # 2200 ‐ 3. After each set of complete turns. For the demonstration. Finishing it: The animation shows an overhand knot being inserted into the center. Tying it: The Monkey's Fist is usually tied around separated fingers. p 354) is used both as a decorative knot and to weight the end of a heaving line (see caution below). The other end is then terminated in another eye splice. For each direction count carefully: it is very easy to miscount and have more strands on one side than the other. change direction by passing the end through the middle. After the overhand knot is in place the whole knot is tightened starting near the buried overhand knot and finishing with the other end of the rope. This makes a slightly fuller knot. a U‐shaped piece of metal strip was used instead and three turns of rope were used in each direction. Alternative Finish: Ashley describes a version (left) where both ends remain outside the fist and are spliced together so that the Fist is part of an eye splice.

jpg&Website=w ww. the crew had tied it around a small rubber ball. Splitting the Coil: Before throwing a heaving line. Danger with Weights: The Monkey's Fist is commonly described as being tied around a small weight to make the heaving line easier to throw a long way.B. served as a ship's doctor on a submarine depot ship in World War II. (Grog's father. Imagine looking up against a bright sky to and catch a rope coil and being hit instead by a heavy missile.animatedknots. Heavier weights can be a danger.animatedknots.attached to any heaving line just by interlocking the second eye splice into the heaving line's eye splice. http://www.php?Categ=decorative&LogoImage=LogoGrog. In the picture above left. split the coil into two parts (picture on right).com/monkeysfist/index. Dock hands have been known to cut heavily weighted Monkey's Fists off the end of heaving lines ‐ and I sympathize with them.com
. In the picture below. Throw the smaller half as a neat coil so that it carries the distance. E. He watched professional dock hands cut off Monkey's Fists and his account remains in my mind). AB Freddie Paz is standing on the upper level of the Foredeck ready to throw the line. Grogono. The rope pays out partly from the coil you throw and partly from the coil in your hand.

He points out that when snug it will not slip down the post. p 304).
Mooring Hitch Tying
Pass the rope behind and over the pole. Mooring
Mooring Hitch Details
Name: Ashley associates the name "Mooring Hitch" with the Rolling Hitch (ABOK # 1791. form a loop so that the tail touches the standing end.
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Release Quick Release Hitches: Tumble.
. Pass a bight of the tail ocross the loop and under the standing end and tighten to take the load. Pull the tail to release. With the tail. Highwayman's. Mooring Hitch
Thie Mooring Hitch is is a quick‐release knot for temporarily securing a boat to a post or ring.

. the Tumble Hitch is the best. The Tumble and Highwayman's are also described here. frightened by a sudden slip or jerk. To make it easier to tie. Real Danger: Quick release hitches share a major fault: entanglement of the free tail with the moving load can trigger abrupt release. might grab at the adjacent line and trigger a fatal fall. such use must be condemned because it implies protracted use of a knot that cannot be trusted and is also prone to jam. A climber. bolts. 3. 4. Similar Knots: Many quick‐release hitches have been described. Quick release knots should not be used for retrieving a climbing rope because there are recommended alternatives: 1.Tying it: The animations shows the locking bight passing sideways under the standing end. Even discounting the risk of the loop catching on oysters. it makes more sense to learn and use the Tumble Hitch which is more trustworthy. Not for Mooring: This so‐called Mooring Hitch has been described as being tied loosely around a pole so that the loop can rise and fall with the tide. and beams. 2. Uses: It might be reasonable to use a Mooring Hitch to briefly tie up a kayak while getting into it. Of the three. barnacles. many descriptions show a bight of the standing end being lifted up first to make this easier. However.

Twist the rope above into a loop and hook it onto the carabiner to take the load.
Munter Mule Combination Hitch Tying
Pass the rope into the carabiner. tie a slip knot leaving a long loop. Now the hitch is inverted and able to take in slack during ascent. This is how the Munter is used for descent. Use it to tie a Half Hitch to secure the knot. Create two loops and then. The only equipment required is a locking carabiner.The load is on the climbing rope.
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. around the climbing rope. When pulled the knot is inverted through the caribiner. Munter Mule Combination
The Munter Mule Combination provides the Munter hitch for controlled rappelling (abseiling) with the Mule addition to belay the Munter when required.

animatedknots. modern. The load end should pass first round the spine side (not the opening side) of the carabiner. round the rope.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. allows controlled descent when rappelling (abseiling). Using a bight of the rope a Slip Knot followed by a Half Hitch is tied around the standing end. Some climbers use three half hitches in preference to two. and also makes the rope fuzzy if used often. The climbing rope passes through a locking carabiner. is used to secure the Munter. The animation used the mule with a half half but the Overhand Knot is more common. Then during descent. the Mule knot tends to slide down tight against the Munter and can be somewhat difficult to undo. the brake hand need only apply relatively little force on the free end. the rope will not chafe against the lock with the risk of opening it. These extra turns are not necessary with 11mm climbing rope. This final Half Hitch is essential because the weight of the hanging rope might otherwise easily undo the Slip Knot. Additional turns should then be taken round the spine of the carabiner to reduce the strain (see picture on left). Alternatives for Tying‐Off: These two pictures compare two of the alternative methods for tying‐off the Munter: Two Half Hitches (Left) and the Overhand Knot (Right). Using Thin Rope: In an emergency. The Mule: The Mule Hitch. Requirements: Use a carabiner large enough to allow the hitch to be inverted through the carabiner when pulled.animatedknots. Disadvantages: The Munter kinks the rope. 1 ‐ 6 in the animation. high strength. imparts a twist to it during descent. thin rope can be used for the Munter.Load
Invert
Take Up Slack
Munter Mule Combination Hitch Details
The Munter: The Munter Hitch ‐ (the Italian Hitch). Advantages: The greatest advantage of the Munter is that it can be used with minimum equipment – just a locking carabiner. and back through the carabiner. For controlled descent. 7 ‐ 11 in the animation.com
. http://www.com/muntermule/index. When loaded.jpg&Website=ww w.

It is used to join a leader. wrap the lighter line (blue) around the straw and both lines. and trim the ends. Holding the straw and the lines together. Make six complete turns. or tippet. to the fly line. Lubricate. pass the line through the straw and tighten the knot neatly around the straw.
Nail Knot Tying
Overlap the two lines. Nail Knot
The Nail Knot is used to join two fishing lines of different diameter. Withdraw the straw.
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. pull the knot tight.

com/nailknot/index.13 Nail Knot Details
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Uses: The Nail Knot was originally named because a nail was inserted as a guide when threading the line. it is useful for attaching your backing to the fly line. i. Today.jpg&Website=www. Alternative: Alternatively.com
. The Nail Knot is an important fishing knot used to join two lines of different diameters and allows for line diameters to diminish down to the fly.anim atedknots. http://www. and your fly line to the leader. The animation above shows the smaller line being threaded through the loops using a straw.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.animatedknots. Advantages: The Nail Knot makes a smooth compact knot that will readily pass through the guides. Tying it: There are several ways of tying this knot. the line can be threaded beside a nail (hence its name) or pulled through with a needle.e. or tippet. it is easier to use a small straw if you can..

Lubricate.
Non­Slip Mono Knot Tying
Tie a loose overhand knot and pass the tag end through the eye. tighten. and trim the end.
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. then back through the overhand knot. Wrap the tag end around the standing end about five times and back through the overhand knot. Non­Slip Mono Knot
The Non‐Slip Mono Knot forms a fixed loop and retains a very high proportion of the line's rated breaking strain.

The outer short‐end wrapping turns become internal and vice versa. Transformation: The Non‐Slip Mono undergoes a transformation as it is tightened.g. e.
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Non­Slip Mono Knot Details
Origin: The Non‐Slip Mono Knot is a higher strength version of the original Homer Rhodes Loop Knot where the tag end was only hitched once around the standing line. Purpose: The Non‐Slip Mono makes a very strong fixed loop in the end of the line. Number of Turns: The recommended number of turns depends on the line strength shown in the table: Tying it: The size of the loop must be adjusted while the turns are still loose. Line 6 ‐ 8 lb test 8 ‐ 12 lb test 15 ‐ 40 lb test 50 ‐ 60 lb test 60 lb plus test Turns 7 5 4 3 2
. Lefty Kreh's Loop Knot. Once tightened the size of the loop is fixed.. Because the loop doesn't grip the lure. it makes a flexible attachment and allows a more natural action. Various other names have been given to the knot. Advantages: The Non‐Slip Mono is fairly easy to tie and is claimed to retain most of the line's rated strength.

It is not the Hangman's Knot. It has many other uses including gaining initial control of the string when tying up a package.
. Pull on the standing end to tighten the noose. Noose Knot
The Noose creates a loop in the end of a rope which tightens when pulled. Slip Knot Noose Knot Details
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Uses: The simple Noose (ABOK # 1114.
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Compare: Noose. It is a frequently tied knot ‐ being used in the Arbor Knot and in knitting as the first loop when casting on – where it is frequently tied as a Noose and called a Slip Knot. It has been used as a snare to catch small animals.) is identical in structure to the Slip Knot except that the bight to be inserted is formed from the long end – and not the short one. Tuck a bight of the standing end through the loop. Make the bight larger and pass it around the object. p 204. This page also provides a link to the Slip Knot to help compare these two similar knots. Noose Knot Tying Form a loop in the end of the rope.

The Hangman's Knot is related to the simple Noose except that many turns are wrapped around the loop. 3.jpg&Website=www. The New York State Article uses the generic "noose". "Running Bowline" or "Duncan". Sometimes applied to the Hangman's Knot.com/noose/index. 2. Several Questions on Snopes ask whether it is illegal to describe the Hangman's Knot.31 both prohibit the display of a Noose because of its use as a means of intimidation. Louisiana House Bill 726 and New York Article 240.animatedknots. It would simplify life to use "Noose" for this knot and use the proper names.com
.php?Categ=basics&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Legislation: However. it is often misnamed a "Slip Knot". "Noose" Name Confusion: It is unfortunate that "noose" is used in a number of ways: 1. and.. e. for other noose‐ like knots.animat edknots. Tying it: The technique used in the animation tucks a bight of the long end through a loop. The knot described on this page. Tied this way it is the first part of one version of the Butcher's Knot used to secure meat for roasting ‐ where again. http://www. Danger: The Noose knot is not a Hangman's Knot but it can also be deadly.. It is deliberately not illustrated here (see below). To make it worse the Duncan and the Hangman's Knot are often wrongly regarded as the same. The knot can bind and critically restrict blood flow. The Louisiana Bill specifies the Hangman's Noose. A descriptive term for loop knots that tighten under load. etc. Its supposed advantage for hanging was humanitarian: appropriate use was intended to result in a broken neck ‐ causing a rapid death. It isn't. It should never be tight round someone's neck. just as in knitting.g. The same result can be obtained almost as easily by passing the end round the object and using the short end to tie a Half Hitch around the long end.

Cut the ends and stitch them under the mat. turn.
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Ocean Plait Mat Tying
Tie an Overhand knot with long loops. Thread the short end across the knot and thread the long end to lock the pattern. Ocean Plait Mat
A pleasing rope mat created started with a simple overhand knot. Repeat with a third. With the long end follow the pattern around. and a fourth. Twist each loop and cross them over each other.

. some of which are very elaborate with many crossings. Whichever method is chosen. The mat then has a thicker section and is less suitable as a tablemat. the two ends can be heated in a flame and fused together. Uses: Small Ocean Plait Knot mats make excellent tablemats and hot pads. the junction should be concealed under another turn as shown in the animation. or stitching. Another way to finish the mat is to attach each end to its neighboring turn using glue. Finishing the Mat: The two ends can be secured in one of several ways.13
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Ocean Plait Mat Details
Origin: The Ocean Plait Mat (ABOK # 3490) is a member of a large family of symmetrical mats made by weaving the ends. Additional Turns: Four complete turns are shown in the animation. Larger ones make excellent doormats or treads for stairs. The entire mat is finally tightened to eliminate any remaining space between the turns. and the material is one that melts. twine. to do this an end has to be passed across other turns. Each mat starts with an Overhand knot and can be lengthened merely be using longer loops and crossing them over each other again. When the mat is purely decorative. Ashley provides a huge selection of designs. constrictor knots. However. The tightness of the original knot determines the number of additional turns that can be added.

hold about half a meter of the short end in your hand. p 186. Pass the short end round the standing end and pull it back through the loop.
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One­Handed Bowline Details
Uses: The One‐Handed Bowline (ABOK # 1010. Hook the standing end with your thumb to form a loop around your hand. Secure the end with an overhand knot to the loop. There are three main steps:
. It is identical to a normal bowline but useful if the other hand is occupied ‐ or injured. useful way to tie a bowline when the other hand is occupied or injured. One­Handed Bowline
The One‐Handed Bowline is tied with one hand.) is a quick.
One­Handed Bowline Tying
With the rope round your back.

2.1. Caution: a sudden strain while tying this knot could trap your wrist. Alternative Stopper Knots for the Bowline: to see more details about the bowline as well as other methods of securing it. Still holding the short end. see the Bowline Page. Pass the short end round the standing end. it is completed with a final overhand knot tied to the loop of the bowline. it is safer to form the loop around your hand rather than risk the whole wrist. The animation illustrates the climber's viewpoint with the rope passed round his/her back.
. Because a bowline can shake loose. 3. For this reason. withdraw your hand from the loop. Hold the short end and create a loop around your hand.

Palomar. reliable.
Orvis Knot Tying
Pass the line through the eye of the hook. and Clinch knots. tighten. each step is like the one before. It also works well in light and heavy lines and in any tippet material. Advantages: The Orvis knot is strong. and easily to remember and tie. Similar Knots: The Orvis performs a similar function as other line‐to‐hook knots such as the Trilene. light. back through the first loop and then back through the second loop. Pass the tag end through the second loop again. Tying it: It is helpful to picture a symmetrical stepladder pattern. the Orvis knot tends to set up at an angle. Until the final extra twist through the same loop. Pass the tag end around the line. Duncan. Lubricate. Disadvantages: As it is being tightened. simple knot for attaching fishing line to a hook.
. Orvis Knot
The Orvis Knot is an excellent. small. and trim the tag end.
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Orvis Knot Details
Uses: The Orvis Knot was invented by Larry Becker who submitted it in a contest held by the Orvis Company to find the best knot to attach a line to the hook.

animatedknots. http://www.Breaking Strain: It is claimed to retain most of the line's original breaking strain.com/orvis/index.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www.com
.animate dknots.

. The Half Knot – a binding knot – first part of a Square (Reef) Knot.g.
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4 Related: Overhand Knot. a Hitching Post. when an even larger stopper knot is required. When pulled tight it can function as a simple stopper knot." It can also be used to prevent the end of a piece of rope unraveling. Half Knot Overhand Knot Tying Details
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Uses: The Overhand Knot was described by Ashley (ABOK # 46. Half Hitch. Overhand Knot Tying Form a loop and pass the end through it. e. It makes a knot in the end of a rope which can prevent fraying and can act as a simple stopper knot. Overhand Knot
The Overhand Knot is the simplest of knots. p 14) as "the simplest of the Single‐Strand Stopper Knots. Tighten it to form the Overhand Knot. Although the Double Overhand makes a good stopper "Knot". the Double Overhand. the Ashley Stopper Knot is preferred.
. The Half Hitch – attaches a rope to something. Comparison: The animation shows the close similarity between:    The Overhand Knot – tied in the end of a rope.
Double Overhand: The first turn is often followed by a second ‐ to create the larger stopper knot. Recommendations: As a stopper the Overhand Knot has one advantage: it is one of the few stopper knots that can be tied tightly up against an object or a knot.

Lubricate and pull the standing and tag ends to tighten the knot.
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. tie an overhand knot. With the bight. Pass the bight through the eye of the hook. Trim the tag end.
Palomar Knot Tying
Form a bight in the end of the line. an overhand knot is tied with the loop which is then passed over the hook. A loop is passed through the eye. Palomar Knot
The Palomar Knot is used to attach a fish hook to a line. Pass the bight over the hook and down around the knot.

jpg&Website=www. or a fly to a leader or tippet. Disadvantages: When tying this knot. Advantages: It is recommended for use with braided lines. The loop is then passed over the hook and tightened around the bight below the eye. With a little practice the Palomar is a knot that can be tied in the dark.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. The effect is that this leaves the hook free to rotate in the knot.anim atedknots. This limits the hook's movement and the majority of experienced fishermen recommend the technique illustrated here.animatedknots.com/palomar/index. It is regarded as one of the strongest and most reliable fishing knots. which can be awkward and necessitates making the loop large enough. Alternative: Some descriptions show the final loop positioned against the shaft of the hook rather than pulled further down around the bight.
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Palomar Knot Details
Uses: The Palomar Knot is a simple knot for attaching a line to a hook. http://www. an overhand knot is tied with the loop. Tying it: After the loop is passed through the eye.com
. the fly or hook has to pass through the loop.

Pull the top loop through the bottom loop. Trim the end. Pass the tag end between the two loops.
Perfection Loop Tying
Form a loop in the end of the line. It is commonly used to join a Perfection Loop in the end of a fly line to a Perfection loop in a Leader using a "Loop to Loop" connection. Perfection Loop
The Perfection Loop creates a small loop which is in line with the standing part of the leader or tippet.
. Lubricate and tighten by pulling on the standing end and the new loop. Form a second loop and lay it on top of the first with the tag end under the standing end.
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Perfection Loop Details
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Uses: The Perfection Loop is the easiest way to make a small loop in the end of a leader or tippet that will lie perfectly in line with the standing end.

Advantages: The Perfection loop creates a stable loop that lines up neatly with the standing end. Tuck the second turn through the first. http://www.com/perfection/index.jpg&Website=www. Using a "Loop to Loop" connection the Perfection Knot allows for quick and convenient leader changes. Wrap the second turn round the finger and thumb and then between the two loops. checking that the loop crosses and traps the end. Hold the first loop between finger and thumb.com
.ani matedknots.animatedknots.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Alternative: It can also be tied through a fly or lure by passing the free end along the path shown in Frame 7 above.Tying it: This knot is most easily tied in the hand.

Stronger Alternative: Ashley also describes the Scaffold Knot (ABOK # 1120. Loosely wrap the end around the bight twice.g.
. or Two‐Turn. sometimes called a Triple Overhand Noose. A common mistake when learning is failing to complete the second turn.) is described by Ashley as made of horsehair and used to trap Woodcock or Partridge. at loads as low as 15 ‐ 20% of the rope's breaking strain. p 65. Tying it: The technique used in the animation creates a Double Overhand Knot around the standing end. It is also known as the Strangle Snare and Double Overhand Noose. e. Scaffold. Poacher's Knot
The Poacher's Knot makes a very secure loop in the end of a piece of rope and is useful with modern high modulus ropes. Bowlines and other familiar loop knots may not be secure with these slippery high modulus ropes and may pull undone.
Poacher's Knot Tying
Form a bight in the end of the rope. Pull tight. High Modulus Ropes: The Poacher's Knot is one of the few knots suitable for use with new ropes such as Dyneema and Spectra. p 204) which is a similar knot with an extra turn. people refer to the Poacher's as a Double. Occasionally.
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Poacher's Knot Details
History: The Poacher's Knot (ABOK # 409. making only a single Overhand knot which is not secure. Tuck the end through these turns to complete the knot. It is hard to imagine using either the material or the technique today..

Structure: The knot requires a "Prusik Loop" which is constructed by joining the two ends of a length of rope using a Double Fisherman's or a Triple Fisherman's. (ABOK # 1763. but Ashley did not name this knot and did not describe the slide and grip feature.
Prusik Knot or Triple Sliding Hitch
The Prusik is a symmetrical <strong>Slide and Grip</strong> (friction) knot.) It appears to be identical in structure to a knot described by Ashley for hoisting a spar.Karl Prusik (sometime president of the Austrian Mountaineering Club and often misspelled "Prussik".
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Prusik Knot (Triple Sliding Hitch) Details
History: The Prusik knot was developed in 1931 by Dr. Two Prusik loops are alternately slid up the static rope: a long
. Load can be taken in either direction. Make sure the turns lie neatly beside each other and pull the knot tight. The same number of turns lie above and below the loop. Pass the knot around the rope three times inside the loop. Uses: Its principal use is allowing a rope to be climbed. p 300).
Prusik Knot (Triple Sliding Hitch) Tying
Use a piece of cord formed into a loop.

com
. it is useful if a load might need to be applied in either direction.anim atedknots. Slide and Grip Knots: Because the Prusik is a symmetrical slide and grip knot. and a second short Prusik loop is attached to the harness.com/prusik/index.Prusik loop allows the climber to lift himself using leg power. if a climber has to be pulled up.animatedknots.jpg&Website=www.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. In rescue work. a Prusik loop can hold a pulley block purchase system on a climbing rope. For loads which are always applied in the same direction other knots are preferred such as the Klemheist or the Bachmann (see picture on left) http://www.

Rapala Knot Tying
Form an overhand knot in the line. Pass the end back through the overhand knot and then through the loop just formed. Wrap the end three times around the standing end. Rapala Knot
The Rapala Knot provides an excellent connection between line and lure.
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. Trim the end. Pass the tag end through the eye and back through the overhand knot. It allows for a natural action as the loop does not grip the eye. Lubricate and tighten the knot.

The Rapala brothers recommended it for use with their Rapala lures as providing a loop that allowed the lures to move freely and naturally. it is best to choose the lightest tackle possible to allow the lure to move with a natural motion. If a swivel or leader is essential. Advantages: The advantage claimed for this knot is that it allows the lure to move naturally.
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Rapala Knot Details
Uses: The Rapala Knot is a non‐slip loop knot usually tied directly to the lure. It is also claimed to retain most of the line strength ‐ and this might be expected as the structure of the knot passes the force to the loop via a wrap in the center. Tying it: A long enough loop should be left to ensure that the lure is not gripped.

Rat­Tail Stopper Tying
The Rat‐Tail Stopper takes the load when the line is taken off the winch. The line is then passed around the First Bitt. Rat Tail Stopper
The Rat Tail Stopper is a friction hitch which takes the load on a Mooring Line while it is transferred to the Bitts.
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. followed by several figure 8 turns round both Bitts. Finally a complete turn is taken around the Second Bitt.

Winches: There will usually be multiple winches. and the port winch is partially hidden by the ship's structure. The knot described here is the double‐ended version. the forward winch already has two lines on it.
. In technical publications several names are used including: Mooring Line Stopper. Rat‐Tail Stopper has been chosen here. Demonstration Only: Because a foredeck during mooring procedures is no place for casual photography. the abbreviated name "Stopper" is commonly used. However. The center of the stopper line is secured to the Bitts – often an eye at the base of the Bitts. Name of the Knot: On the working deck. The stopper knot itself commences with a Half Knot tied around the mooring line before starting the double spiral. We waited until the ship had left the Atlantic swells and was travelling east in the calmer waters of the Mediterranean and when the morning sunlight brightly illuminated the port side foredeck. In this picture taken of the Insignia's Forward Mooring Station (left). Rat‐Tailed Stopper. and Rattail Stopper. Rat Tail Stopper. these photographs were taken while at sea. the starboard winch has two lines on it. For safety and for convenience the line was not under tension.13
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Rat­Tail Stopper Details
Controlling a Mooring Line: This page describes a Mooring Line Stopper knot that temporarily takes the load while a Mooring Line is transferred from the Winch to the Bitts. This allows some lines to remain permanently on their own winch. The Mooring Line was led first from the Hawse Hole to the Winch and then to the Bitts. many lines have to be first tightened with a shared winch and then transferred to a set of Bitts to free up the winch to tighten the next line.

Dipping the Loop allows either line to be removed first. Without this precaution. which is being tightened or released can lead to major injuries or death. four lines are run from each location. However. the force in the mooring line will be many thousands of pounds. Even with HMPE significant risks remain. and then over the Bollard. All the lines run from the two work decks. Safety: Safety is taken very seriously.
. mooring lines are commonly made of HMPE. To Dip the Loop. This technique allows the first rope to be lifted off first if necessary. Mooring: Large ships are usually moored alongside a dock using multiple lines. the first rope's eye can be lifted off but can only slide up and down the second mooring line. which reduces the "snapback" risks on the shore and on the mooring station: when a loaded nylon hawser breaks. there is sufficient energy contained in the recoiling ends to maim or kill. a couple of Half Hitches are tied around the line. the second rope's eye splice is passed from beneath. up through the first rope's eye splice. the two lines usually share the same Bollard. Using a single line. Rat‐Tail Options: A single tailed stopper can be used for lighter loads. A well equipped Mooring Station often provides a safety cage around the winch operator to provide some protection from recoiling rope ends ‐ see Right Side of Frames 1 ‐ 4. followed by a length of spiral wrapping. All Eight Lines are usually "Doubled Up" so that Two Lines share each task. lines from the two ships may share a Bollard. Standing near a line. Injuries are not uncommon. Dipping the Loop: When a line is Doubled Up. more reliable. However. when two ships are moored close to each other.Size and Force: The size of the Mooring Line will vary with the vessel's size. They are also much less elastic than nylon. or worse standing on a line or in a bight of line. one aft and one forward. In addition. Material: Today. the double stopper technique illustrated here would appear to be stronger. When tight. and less likely to twist the Mooring Line. which floats so that there is a reduced risk of fouling a propeller. on Cruise Ships the diameter will typically be 2. When this occurs.5 ‐ 3 inches (64 ‐ 75 mm) or more with a breaking strain of thirty to forty tons. Typically.

Continue around to add a final Half Hitch. It can take the load while a rope is transferred or secured elsewhere. Continue around going over the first turn. It is one of the few knots which can be tied and untied while there is a load and can be adjusted without it being untied.
Rolling Hitch Tying
Pass the end around the main (red) rope to make a Half Hitch.
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Rolling (Taut Line) Hitch
The Rolling Hitch secures a rope to another parallel rope. Tuck the rope between the standing end and the first turn. Tighten to make it secure (this introduces a slight dog‐leg in the main rope).

This became known as a Taut‐Line Hitch and was taught this way in early versions of the Boy Scouts of America Handbooks. Overboard: The Rolling Hitch has been promoted as the only knot to tie in the following unlikely but critical circumstance: while sailing alone you fall overboard and catch hold of the line which you have prudently left trailing astern and find yourself hanging on with difficulty. p 298) attaches a rope (usually smaller) to another (usually larger) when the line of pull is almost parallel. at home. in critical applications some authorities recommend using the tail end to tie a second Rolling Hitch to back up the first. to secure a rope to a parallel pole (right).. Both of the first two turns are just wound on tightly beside each other. Before you tire. It may also fail to hold on wire or stainless‐steel tubing. not "tucked up". Tying it back to itself forms an adjustable loop (Midshipman's Hitch) with many uses. the tucked turn forces a slight dog‐leg in the main rope which contributes to the secure grip. Rope to Pole: However. ABOK # 1798. e. this knot is likely to fail. p 298) is created when the final Half Hitch around the standing end is tied in the opposite direction. The "pull" MUST be in line with the main rope (or the pole). p 74). Version 1 is less secure on rope. The value of 'tucking in' turn two above the first turn can be shown by tying the knot with and without this tuck. Recent Research: In August of 2009 Practical Sailor reported on their testing of slide and grip knots. If the tension is away from the standing rope or pole. However. not a rope. It can also make an adjustable loop in the end of a rope to act as a spring line to a dock.. which tends to be much more slippery. use Ashley's Version 1 (ABOK # 1734. Under Load: The Rolling Hitch is one of the few knots which can be tied and untied with load on.. Moreover. Without this tucked turn. It does not bind and. and Rolling Hitches: A Midshipman's Hitch is created when a rope goes around an object and tied back to itself with a Rolling Hitch Version 2 – the version better for rope. the rolling hitch often slips under load. the first part of the knot has no 'structure' and the first two turns just slide along." After testing various knots. Unfortunately. p 304). p 298). Critical Details: The animation correctly shows that the blue rope is parallel to the red. To attach a rope to a pole see Ashley Version 1 below. On more modern line. It is harder to snug up but is said to cause less twisting. So we now have a "Taut‐Line" Hitch employing the wrong version of the Rolling Hitch. Uses: The Rolling Hitch is useful to take the strain off a rope with a foul turn on a winch.. are used in the first part of the knot before the final Half Hitch is placed.g. As soon as the 'tuck' is made the knot is stable as an "Awning Hitch" (picture on left.Rolling Hitch and Taut Line Hitch Details
Description: The Rolling Hitch Ashley Version 2 (ABOK # 1735. Magnus Hitch: A Magnus (ABOK # 1736. There is no "tucked second turn". they recommended the Icicle Hitch as offering the best performance as a Slide and Grip Knot. does not slip. the one better suited for a pole. Taut‐Line. Midshipman's. where three turns. it makes an adjustable Clothesline Hitch. It can be used to relieve the strain on a hawser while the "Bitter End" is transferred to the "Bitts" (picture on Right) but the Rat‐Tail Stopper is better. Their analysis concluded: ". you
. on small sailing boats it is successfully used as a boom‐vang and.. a change was made and Version 1 was substituted – the version better for a pole. when tied correctly. Rolling Hitch vs.. Safety Belt Hitch (Left): Ashley also describes a Safety‐Belt Hitch used by Steeplejacks (ABOK # 452.

Two Half Hitches will slide and constrict you. This is particularly useful when the Rolling Hitch is being used as a Spring Line. A bowline cannot be tied under load. You then have to tie a suitable knot to make a loop around you. The Rolling Hitch is the answer.com
. the bight can be used to tie one or more Half Hitches.animatedknots. The first part of the knot is tied using one strand of the loop. Once the first part of the knot is secure and. The other strand is kept out of the way but the bitter end is NOT pulled through. attention to detail is essential.jpg&Website=www. as usual.com/rollinghitch/index. However. the major strain is taken and the final Half Hitch can be tied with less urgency. animatedknots. Variation Using a Bight: When there is a long tail end. Even as the second turn is tucked "up" into the correct place. the Rolling Hitch can be tied using a bight (loop) instead of the end.manage to bring the bitter end of the rope around your back. http://www. will take the strain.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog.

e. ideally in a storage bag. Climbing Rope Replacement Schedule:      Occasional use. if the sheath shows no significant wear or damage. Use climbing rope only for climbing ‐ not for towing a vehicle. and assessment. presumably. repeated minor falls. and do not place the rope above a heat source. off the ground. If a rope has not suffered a major fall. on the side of profit! How long you decide to use the rope depends on your own inspection. knowledge of the rope's history. alkalis. Rope should be kept neatly coiled. Avoid direct sunlight. bleach. rinsed free of the soap. i. e. on care. becoming stiff. and if the rope has not been exposed to damage from chemicals: it is almost certainly safe to use it within the schedule shown below.. and embers. Storage: Climbing rope should be stored.
Chaos
Coil
Care and Cleaning of Rope Details
Safety: The life of a climbing rope depends greatly on use and damage and. Care: Keep your rope off the ground to protect it from dirt that contains sharp small chips and crystals. and rapelling using small diameter carabiners all tend to weaken rope. However. to a lesser extent. e. acids. Cleaning: Climbing ropes should be washed occasionally by hand in cold water with a mild soap.. preferably after drying.
Care and Cleaning of Rope
Rope is all to often left in a tangle on the ground which is far from the safest way to store it and usually makes it hard to use. approaching factor 2 (a fall double the rope distance from the belay). heat from rapid rapelling. and storage. soft spots. cleaning. and then spread out or hung up to dry in the air. Avoid contact with chemicals.g. alternate weekends: every 4 years Every Weekend: every 2 years Sport climbing involving frequent short falls: every 3 ‐ 6 months Major fall (approaching factor 2): immediately Flat spots. Life Expectancy: Manufacturers recommend a retirement schedules which errs on the side of caution and also. sheath damage: immediately
. Avoid treading on your rope as this may work sharp particles into the core. Rope Care/Cleaning
Cleaning. at room temperature. smokers.g.. and care of ropes ‐ particularly those used for climbing. do not use a dryer. washing. sparks or other sources of ignition. oxidizing agents (present in concrete). and stored appropriately so that it can be used free of tangles without delay.

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Unsure of condition or history: immediately
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p 342) It is used to lash two parallel spars together to make a longer one. Round Lashing
A Round Lashing is used to bind adjacent poles together.
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Join two poles
Round Lashing Details
Use: The Round Lashing is similar to the one described by Ashley for scaffolding (ABOK # 2103. Two Round Lashings can be used to make a longer pole.
Round Lashing Technique
Start with a Clove Hitch around both poles.
. Wrap six or eight turns around the two poles. Finish with another Clove Hitch.

A common recommendation is to hammer two wedges between the poles. one above and one below the lashing.Increased Security: Many descriptions describe the difficulty of making the lashing tight enough to be secure. This tightens the lashing and makes it more secure.
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e. Continue around in the same direction to make the second Half Hitch.
Round Turn and Two Half Hitches
An excellent knot for securing a rope to a post or ring. the knot is then tied with the other. of a mooring line during docking. This takes the strain while you tie the knot. Pull tight to complete the knot.
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Structure
. Pull this tight. The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is essentially a round turn fastened back to the standing end with a clove hitch. While one hand holds the strain. It is similar to the anchor bend but the first Half Hitch is not passed under the initial turn.g.
Round Turn and Two Half Hitches Tying
Pass the end around the post twice.. The initial turns take the load. Go around the standing end to make the first Half Hitch.

animatedknots. then do the same with the next (and the next). the Half Hitches can be tied using a bight (loop) instead of the end. As the name suggests. http://www.com
. Variation Using a Bight: When there is a long tail.g. e. If you start the first Half Hitch with the tail passing away from you above the rope.com/roundturn/index. or even two additional turns. with a large vessel or in a strong wind. the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is composed of two important parts: Round Turn: The initial 'Round Turn' – actually two passes of the tail – should take the initial strain while you complete the knot. p 296) is useful for attaching a mooring line to a dock post or ring although probably less secure than the Anchor Hitch (below). The two Half Hitches actually form a clove hitch round the standing end. This consumes excess rope which may otherwise hang in the way or require coiling. or more Half Hitches ‐ either to make the knot more secure or to use up excess line.jpg&Website=www.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog. These turns allow you to control the load while you add the: Two or More Half Hitches.Round Turn and Two Half Hitches Details
A Useful Boating Knot: A Round Turn and Two (or more) Half Hitches (ABOK # 1720. when dealing with such force.a nimatedknots. This may be critical when handling a mooring line. However. As emphasized above. Direction: Always tie the Half Hitches in the same 'direction'. it is common to see an additional one. use as many turns on the post as are necessary to control the strain. An additional turn. should be added initially if you are handling a heavy load. Tying the Knot: Learn to tie the Half Hitches with one hand! This allows you to use the other hand to take the strain of a vessel that may easily pull with a force far greater than you could otherwise control..

Form a loop in the tail. up to a tree branch. e. and back through the loop to form the bowline. p 204) is a valuable way of tying a type of noose which will not bind and can be slid undone easily. Pull on the standing end to run the bowline up against the pole. In boating it is recommended for use when retrieving lumber or rigging which has fallen
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Running Bowline Details
Uses: The Running Bowline (ABOK # 1117.g.
Running Bowline Tying
Pass the rope over the pole.. through the loop. around itself. Running Bowline
The Running Bowline is identical to a normal bowline but is tied around the standing end so that it can slide. Pass the short end round the standing end.

php?Categ=boating&LogoImage=LogoGrog.animatedknots.overboard and in climbing for retrieving objects in places such as crevasses. if the long end option is considered. At home it is useful to hang a Child's Swing.com
. Alternatives: A similar running noose could be created with various loop knots ‐ including the Noose itself. The advantage of using a knot like a bowline is that it will not close up and bind on the standing end.com/bowlinerunning/index.jpg&Website=w ww. Advance planning provides options: either a light retrievable line attached to the bowline or a very long tail to the bowline. Retrieval: Once the knot is snug up against the branch.animatedknots. The first challenge is to find a suitable branch and the second is to successfully throw the rope over it. When not loaded the knot can be easily undone. the running bowline will grip its load ‐ or the branch. However. the Alpine Butterfly Loop would be better because it requires no threading of a long end to tie it. retrieval later can be a problem. it is often easier to first tie the Bowline and then thread the Standing End through it. The knot may be twenty feet in the air and you have neither intrepid rope climbers nor long ladders. http://www. Options: When the Standing End is available. So long as the rope is under tension.

down a groove and under a strand. under. up a groove and under a strand. cut short. up. and trim. Tie the ends with Square (Reef) knots. Pull them through. down and under. Similarly.
Sailmaker's Whipping Tying
Thread the twine between the strands. Sailmaker's Whipping
The Sailmaker's Whipping is the standard against which other whippings are compared: elegant and secure. pass the short end down. under. Wrap the long end around the rope. Pass it under a strand. the binding turns encircle the whipping to prevent the strands from unwinding if damaged.
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Sailmaker's Whipping Details
Uses: The Sailmaker's Whipping (ABOK # 3446. p 547) is the most secure whipping. This whipping can be used equally well on braided or kernmantle rope ‐ but greater care is required to distribute the frapping turns evenly round the whipping. Techniques: There are several variations of this whipping:
. The whipping turns are contained by the frapping turns that both grip the rope and prevent the whipping from unwinding if damaged. It looks most satisfying when applied to the end of a three‐strand rope ‐ each pair of frapping strands follows the twist of the rope and is accommodated in the groove.

For ropes that do not melt. As shown in the animation.
. trim the aramid core shorter than the sheath and burn the sheath to cover and bury the core. the short end is initially threaded diagonally and is wound inside the whipping. e. it is not uncommon to see just two sets of frapping turns 180 degrees apart instead of three sets 120 degrees apart. Burning the end: A rope's end. it is sensible. If necessary. However. However. Ideally. the frapping turns should be distributed evenly round the rope. In braided rope the principle is the same. this whipping can often be tied without a needle: the strands of the rope can be opened up by hand to pass the twine through between them. For larger. and is recommended. it is still worth doing as it still seals the sheath. aramid core such as Kevlar. the short end must be left outside the whipping turns and then threaded up outside the whipping and through the rope to trap the long end. Number of Frapping Turns: Many texts describe this whipping with just one frapping strand lying in each groove ‐ which necessitates a different start to the whipping. in smaller braided ropes.g. use a needle to pull this chain through the rope.. and more valuable rope. a large needle makes the task easier and is essential equipment when tying a Sailmaker's Whipping round a braided or kernmantle rope. provides additional protection. Braided Rope: It is relatively easy to decide where to thread the twine in three stranded rope ‐ the gap between each of the three strands provides a natural target and the three strands dictate that one pair of frapping turns will lie in each groove.
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Needles: With three‐stranded rope. three sets are strongly recommended. The knots are then buried and very unlikely to shake loose. whipped with a Sailmaker's and trimmed is a neat and attractive work of art. Although melting the end diminishes its beauty. Completing the Whipping: The animation describes finishing the knot with a chain of square knots. When using a single frapping turn.

Spead the poles to make shear legs
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Shear Legs
Shear Lashing Details
Use: The Shear Lashing (ABOK # 2108 ‐ 2110. Shear Lashing
A Shear Lashing is used to hold two poles together at one end so that the other ends can be spread apart to act as shear legs. Wrap both poles with a simple lashing. p 342. Tie off the end with a clove hitch. The other ends are separated to make a pair of Shear Legs. Wrap the lashing with a two or three tight frapping turns.
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Shear Lashing Technique
Tie a clove hitch around one pole.) is used to lash the ends of two poles together.

but I'm indebted to Dana Holgate for the following: wrap the rope around a stick. The other ends of the poles are then separated to make a pair of Shear Legs. A Round Lashing is then tied around the two poles near one end. A series of them can support an aerial walkway. The Lashing is completed with another Clove Hitch. It is sometimes necessary to spread the legs apart to open up the poles to make it possible. bend your knees. There seems to be little agreement and some writers use both on the same page.
. stand on the pole. Various techniques are recommended. Pulling them as tight as possible makes the Lashing more secure. A single pair can be controlled with a rope as they lean over a stream to lift a bucket. Then two or three Frapping turns are tied binding the lashing turns tightly. Use: Shear legs support weight. Tying it: The two poles are laid side‐by‐side and an initial Clove Hitch is tied round one pole. Starting these turns can be awkward. These turns are known as Frapping Turns. hold the stick across your thighs and then pull by straightening your legs. Frapping Turns: The turns surrounding the lashing at right angles exert a tightening effect on the lashing.Spelling: This Lashing is widely spelled both "Shear" and "Sheer". "Shear" was selected here because it was Ashley's choice.

and tighten it. This is a piece of three strand nylon rope and this failure was reproduced easily and repeatedly.. drop it over the adjacent bight.. The illustration on the left shows a correctly tied sheepshank failing under modest load. Form a Half Hitch in one standing end.should be seized or otherwise secured to make them safe unless the need is very temporary. It is not reliable when tied in some modern ropes and is only included here as Scouts are still sometimes expected to learn how to tie it. Form a Half Hitch in the other standing end. Sheepshank
The Sheepshank is a knot which can be used to shorten a length of rope. and then tighten it too....
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Sheepshank Knot Details
Avoid Using It: The Sheepshank should never be used...
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Sheepshank Knot Tying
Fold the rope to approximately the desired new length. p 210) but cautioned that they ". Apply the load carefully." Failure Under Load: Some modern synthetic materials tend to be flexible and slippery. drop it over its adjacent bight. It is only included here because Boy Scouts used to be required to learn it. Ashley described Sheepshanks (ABOK # 1152 ‐ 1154.

animatedknots. please request your Troop Leader to eliminate this knot and replace it with something safe and useful. the Sheepshank would be almost impossible to tie under load. the Alpine Butterfly Loop is an excellent way of creating a loop in the middle of a length of rope and can also be safely used to shorten a rope. In the critical environments presented by climbing. As a knot. Bellringer's Knot: Bellringer's use just one end of a Sheepshank (right) to keep the tail of the rope off the ground when not being used. http://www. and boating. Practical Limitations: In practice.Eliminate It: If you are asked to learn to tie the Sheepshank.jpg&Website=www.com/sheepshank/index.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Substitution: One suggested use for the Sheepshank is the protection of a damaged or weakened piece of rope. For example. there are no applications where the Sheepshank would offer an acceptable solution. it cannot pass through blocks or sheaves. search and rescue. shortening one end and re‐securing the line would be preferable. A more secure alternative is the Alpine Butterfly Loop.com
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However. it attaches a rope to a Becket (a rope handle or an eye). In the picture above the Blue Rope would be Becket and the Red Rope would be tied to it with a Becket Hitch. The thicker rope must be used for the simple bight as shown. It has to be tied with both ends loose in your hands with no load on the ropes.
Sheet Bend Tying
Form a loop in the thicker rope (blue) and hold it in one hand. Becket Hitch: The Becket Hitch is a very similar knot. tuck the smaller rope under itself to finish the knot. The Sheet Bend would replace the Square (Reef) knot except for the awkward fact that it
. The Double Sheet Bend uses a second turn around the thicker rope. It works equally well if the ropes are of the same size. it is a "Hitch": it does not join two ropes. Finally. It is recommended when there is a great difference in the diameters of the two ropes. p 262) is recommended for joining two ropes of unequal size.
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Double Sheet Bend
Sheet Bend Details
Uses: The Sheet Bend (ABOK # 1431. Pass the thinner rope (red) through the loop and behind the (blue) tail and standing ends in that order.
Sheet Bend (Becket Bend)
The Sheet Bend joins two ropes of unequal size but also works well if the ropes are of the same size.

The alternative version ‐ with the tails on opposite sides ‐ is less reliable. the tail of the smaller rope can be taken twice round the bight in the larger rope to create the double sheet bend. Double Sheet Bend: When the ropes are markedly different in size. http://www.is not a binding knot – it has to be tied with both ends loose in your hands with no load on the ropes (The Square Knot ‐ with all its faults ‐ can be tied tight against a sail. Structure: When correctly tied the two tails lie on the same side of the knot.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog.animatedknots. and usually stays tight while the second Half Hitch is tied).com
.a nimatedknots. or parcel.jpg&Website=www.com/sheetbend/index.

Short Splice
The Short Splice makes a secure join between two pieces of three strand rope. tighten. Push the ends into each other and tape the middle. and then another. Make the first complete set of tucks.
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. Unravel enough for about 5 tucks (3 shown here).
Short Splice Tying
Tape the rope. Repeat this using the other end. and complete the remaining tucks. Remove the tapes.

g.. the two strands in each pair were tapered and carefully wrapped round each other. The Long Splice required a long overlap in which strands were carefully unraveled and re‐laid with a strand from the other rope. a minimum of five complete "tucks" is recommended. In nylon rope I have never attempted it – too slippery and too difficult to control. however. p 427).13
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Short Splice Details
Short Splce: Ashley describes the Short Splice and its variants in detail (ABOK # 2634. In tarred hemp it was feasible – but produced at best a weak result. now. However. Modern synthetic materials. tend to be slippery and. Then. e. making a longer towrope or dinghy painter.
. Natural fibers hold well with three tucks each side. it is useless for any running rigging because the splice will be too fat to pass through any blocks. Long Splice: The Short Splice is named in contrast to the so‐called Long Splice – which joined two three‐strand ropes with no appreciable bulge and would pass through blocks. This is entirely satisfactory for some purposes. Pros and Cons: The Short Splice makes a secure join between two lengths of three‐strand rope.

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. Attach the other end of the rope to this rod. Rotate each rod to make a larger twisted loop. Replace this rod with six separate rods. Pull the rope through the loops to complete the knot. It is made by raising loops in alternate strands in a three stranded rope. Pass the rod from one end through all the loops.
Grog's Sliding Splice Tying
Use a rod with a tapered end to open up alternate strands.
Sliding Splice by Grog
The Sliding Splice makes an adjustable splice suitable for making a yachtsman's belt.

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Sliding Splice Details
Uses: The Sliding Splice provides a neat method of creating an adjustable yachtsman's belt. Other Uses: One of the reasons for describing this splice was to discover other uses for it. The original belt is still in good condition 46 years later. This enables the rope to be worked until the loops are all symmetrical and the rope is restored to its normal shape. It
. Charlie Pfeiffer wrote: "I used the sliding splice when pulling wire as an electrician. About twenty years after publishing the description. Six alternating strands are opened up using pencils or pieces of doweling rod. I finally found one. After six months of displaying it. When completed. The short rods are then replaced with one longer rod. My files no longer record which journal or which issue. at least one person read the article. The belt is constructed using an Eye Splice at one end and a sliding splice at the other end. History: I first described the sliding splice in a British yachting magazine around 1960. an eye splice can be added to attach the snap shackle. Further working and stretching makes the splice grip the rope. A snap shackle fastens the two ends. as is the original photograph which was submitted for publication (right). The long rod is then taped to the end of the rope so that as the rod is withdrawn. the rope follows it through the loops. a woman noticed my belt and said: "you must have read the same article that I did!" So. temporary taping suffices on the other end while the sliding splice is being made. Additional clips and shackles can be added to attach knife lanyards etc. Tying it: The adjustable splice is made in three‐stranded rope. Each rod is rotated until a loop is formed to the side of the rope. Both ends are secured: a whipping looks best on the sliding splice end.

is an easy way to quickly put a loop on the end of a piece of rope without creating a big knot that would make pulling difficult."
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Tuck the bight through the loop and tighten. To release the slip knot. Slip Knot
Release
. just pull on the short end to let the rope run free.
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To Compare: Noose. The knot can be used as temporary stopper knot. Prepare a bight in the short end. Slip Knot
The Slip Knot provides a temporary loop in the end of a rope ‐ which loosens when pulled. This page also provides a link to the Noose to help compare these two similar knots.
Slip Knot Tying
Form a loop in the end of the rope.

the knot can then be quickly untied by pulling on the free end to release the bight. e..com/slip/index. In practice. such knots also have well known other names.Slip Knot Details
Uses: The slip knot (ABOK # 529. Confusion: Some writers apply the term "Slip Knot" to other knots ‐ where any loop slides along the standing end.animatedknots. With some tightly loaded knots. they actually function as nooses.g.. It is one of the most frequently tied knots ‐ being used in knitting as the first loop when casting on – where it is called a slip knot but frequently tied as a noose. the generic misuse of the name Slip Knots is deplored. p 87) is identical in structure to the Noose Knot except that the bight to be inserted is formed from the short end – not the long.jpg&Website=www. On this website Slip Knot is reserved for this one knot. such knots do NOT function as Slip Knots. e.g. Moreover.g. Theoretically. For this reason. Slipped Half Hitch. it can be difficult to release and almost impossible to pull the final curve of the bight itself out of the tightened turn. a Slipped Rolling Hitch. a Buntline Hitch.com
. It can be used as a temporary stopper knot ‐ as shown in the animation.php?Categ=basics&LogoImage=LogoGrog. A knot tied this way is described as slipped.. Slipped Knots: Many knots can be completed with a bight instead of the end. Slipped Buntline Hitch. Bowline on a Bight and various fishing knots that can be slid to tighten. http://www. e.animatedk nots. Because they tighten under load. this depends on how much load has reached the bight. However.

Lubricate and pull both ends to tighten the knot and trim the end. It was originally invented for use with eyeless hooks but it is still widely used today. or tippet. Grip the eye and both parts of the line. or tippet. It was originally developed for use with hooks that had no eyes. directly to a baited hook.
Snell Knot Tying
Pass the end of the leader through the eye and then through again in the same direction. but it is still widely used today. to be directly tied to a baited hook.
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Snell Knot Details
Uses: The Snell Knot allows the leader. Shrink the loop by pulling on the standing end. It aligns the fishing line or leader with the shank of the hook. Snell Knot
The Snell Knot ties a leader. Wrap the loop around the shank of the hook 7 or 8 times.

jpg&Website=www.animatedknots.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.com
. http://www. When tightening the knot.animate dknots.Tying it: The Snell knot requires wrapping a loop around the hook.com/snell/index. hold the turns under your fingers to ensure they snug down neatly. Advantages: The Snell Knot is one of the older knots and is claimed to provide a reliable connection that preserves the strength of the line – particularly if the thickness of the eye is greater than the line diameter.

The Surgical Knot makes a more secure first half knot because it employs an additional crossing. The "Granny" Knot is a common mistake – the second half knot has been tied with the red rope crossing "under" the blue This knot tends to slip and its use should be avoided.
Square Knot (Reef)
The Square.g. sail covers or a parcel. For greater security add extra half knots. The knot is routinely employed during surgery and also underlies several fishing and climbing knots. The "Thief" Knot is included here for interest. Sailors were said to use the thief knot so that they could recognize when a thief had been tampering with their bags. Cross them a second time (red over blue again) and pull the ends tight to form the Square Knot.
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Square
Extra half knot
Surgical Knot
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Square Knot (Reef Knot) Tying
Take two ropes and cross them (red over blue) to form a half knot. or Reef. It is fequently tied wrongly as a “Granny Knot”. The tails lie on opposite sides of the knot. e. Never use it for human or other critical loads ‐ it may spill into two Half Hitches and then slip. The story sounds improbable because the Thief Knot is awkward to tie and it doesn't hold. Knot joins equal sized ropes..

That is why surgeons use an extra turn in the first Half Knot – to achieve the binding required while they prepare the second Half Knot.g. Uses: Nevertheless. you can tie the string on a gift. These photographs were created by pulling on the ends of the red rope.animatedknots. to use up long shoelaces. it comes undone. When the second Half Surgeon's Knots is tied as a bow. Variations: When the Square (Reef) Knot is used it is common to add additional Half Knots as security ‐ a tribute to how unsatisfactory a knot it is. For example.
Granny
Thief
Square Knot (Reef Knot) Details
First Knot: The Square (Reef) Knot (ABOK # 1402. the knot can be tied with loops from the start. p 258) is usually learned when we tie the laces on our first pair of shoes. "There have probably been more lives lost as a result of using a Square Knot as a bend (to tie two ropes together) than from the failure of any other half dozen knots combined. http://www. it makes a Secure Shoelace Bow. you can tie a sail cover over a sail. Admittedly it is usually a bow that we tie ‐ but the underlying knot is a Square (Reef) Knot. it jams. Never use it for critical loads. It is also one of the many knots used in macrame.animated knots.com/reef/index." (ABOK page 258). Caution: Click on the picture on the left to demonstrate how even a "Stack" of Square Knots capsize and pull undone. We also learn just how unsatisfactory the knot is. and you can tie the laces on your shoes (if they still come with laces).php?Categ=basics&LogoImage=LogoGrog. It slips.. This means the final "bow" cannot be untied by pulling the ends ‐ but it makes a secure knot. the experience of tying a Square Knot teaches the fundamental process of tying a Half Knot or Half Hitch. e.com
.jpg&Website=www. the first Half Knot may bind – but it cannot be trusted. which make better binding knots for each stage and a secure final knot. The Square (Reef) knot can also be tied using bights (loops). and it is all too easy to tie a granny instead which behaves even less well. More importantly. tied in the right material against a curved surface. A better alternative may be to use two Surgeon's Half Knots. the Square (Reef) knot has many uses but not where safety is critical. Purpose: It is intended to be a binding knot and.

Twist short end around long and wrap the rope around both poles.
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. Square Lashing
A Square Lashing is used to hold two poles at a 90‐degree angle to one another.
Square Lashing Technique
Start with a Clove Hitch around one pole. Tighten the lashing by surrounding it with three or four frapping turns. alternately going over and under each pole about three or four turns. Finish with a final Clove Hitch.

bend your knees. Scouting: Square lashings can be used to make a rectangular frame (right). but I'm indebted to Dana Holgate for the following: wrap the rope around a stick. Pulling them as tight as possible makes the Lashing more secure. Frapping Turns: The turns surrounding the lashing at right angles exert a tightening effect on the lashing.13
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Square Lashing Details
Use: The Square Lashing (ABOK # 2114. stand on the pole.) is used to bind together two spars that are at right angles with one another. These turns are known as Frapping Turns. a table can be supported by a pair of poles or branches lashed horizontally either side of the trees.
. when two trees are close enough. hold the stick across your thighs and then pull by straightening your legs. a fence can be constructed by driving poles into the ground and then joining them with bars attached with Square Lashings. Various techniques are recommended. p 343. and a raft can be created by lashing bamboo poles across each other. Square lashings are designed to be load bearing and can be used to create scaffolding. Many applications have been described including: making support frames.

Use both lines to form a loop with enough overlap to tie a double overhand knot.. e.g. is easy to tie and is useful to join two lines of moderately unequal size. It is actually tied as a Double Overhand Knot ‐ which probably explains why it is sometimes known as the Double Surgeon's Knot ‐ redundant because "Surgeon's" implies the use of the two turns.
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Surgeon's Knot Details
Uses: The Surgeon's Knot..
Surgeon's Knot Tying
Place the leader and the tippet side by side. Lubricate the knot and pull it tight. Trim the ends. a tippet to a leader.g. or Surgeon's Join.
. Surgeon's Knot
The Surgeon's Knot joins two fishing lines of moderately unequal size. when attaching a tippet to a leader. Pull both ends through the loop and then through a second time. e.

Advantages: The Surgeon's Knot is one of the easiest knots to learn and is an excellent knot to join two lines of moderately unequal size.com
. http://www.The Surgeon's Knot allows you.animatedknots.jpg&Website=www. Alternative: As an option. Tying it: The Surgeon's Knot can only be tied with a tippet because the usual method of tying it requires the entire length of the tippet to be passed through the overhand knot twice.com/surgeonsjoin/index. It is usually used to join two pieces of monofilament. carefully set the knot by pulling on all four ends. Disadvantages: It is rather bulkier than the Blood Knot and creates a slight angle in the line. with the same leader. to select the size of tippet to suit the size of the fly.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. the two lines can be passed through the overhand knot a third time to form the Triple Surgeon's knot. animatedknots. After forming the knot.

Surgeon's Loop Knot
The Surgeon's Loop is a quick and easy way to make a loop in the end of your line

Surgeon's Loop Knot Tying
Form a bight in the end of the line and tie an overhand knot. Pass the bight through a second time. Adjust the bight to create the desired loop size. Lubricate and pull the knot tight. Trim the end.

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Surgeon's Loop Knot Details
Uses: The Surgeon's Loop is essentially a Double Overhand Knot. It can be tied quickly and easily in the end of a line. It is often used to make a "Loop to Loop" connection or to create a fixed loop that allows the artificial lure or fly to move naturally. Tying it: It is tied in the same way as the Surgeon's Knot. Alternative: An extra turn can be used to create a Triple Surgeon's Knot. However, this provides minimal additional benefit and makes the knot bulkier. Advantages: The advantage for this knot is that is reliable, easy to learn, and some sources claim that it retains a high proportion of the rated line strength.

Tensionless Hitch
The Tensionless Hitch secures a rope to a tree or pole by wrapping the rope enough times to ensure that there is no tension in the tail. This end is then finished with a Figure 8 loop and clipped to the standing end with a carabiner.

Tensionless Hitch Tying
Prepare sufficient rope to make 3 or 4 turns around the post. Make a Figure 8 Loop in the end and attach a carabiner. Wrap the rope around the post. Make sure there is sufficent slack and clip the carabiner to the standing end. A kink in the standing end is an error.

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Tensionless Hitch Details
Uses: The Tensionless Hitch shares a critically important feature with the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches. It is used to gain secure control of a loaded line by wrapping the rope around a post or tree several times. This is the key to the safe handling of heavy loads. Similar Knot: Another similar knot is the Lighterman's – which starts with turns wrapped around a post and is completed with alternating turns enclosing the standing end. Of these two knots we prefer the Lighterman's because it exerts less rotational force on the post. Advantages: An exception might be a rope loaded to near breaking point because the Tensionless Hitch is claimed to preserve most of the ropes breaking strain. However, this knot is nearly always used to support critical loads, i.e.,

people. The required safety factor renders this advantage more theoretical than practical. More plainly, if you're that worried, choose a larger rope. Number of Turns: The diameter of the post or tree selected should be at least eight times the diameter of the rope. Descriptions of the Tensionless Hitch indicate that the number of turns used may be increased when the post is smooth and polished. Confusing language describes the number of turns. If a rope has made a single "wrap", it has been passed behind a post, and then knotted to itself; it has NOT made "one Round Turn". Two "wraps" for a climber is called "One Round Turn" in boating. In the animation above the rope wraps around the pole three times making "two round turns". Tying it: A Figure 8 Loop in the end is clipped to the standing end with no tension; hence the name "tensionless". The animation shows a carabiner completing this knot. However, the tail can also be secured directly to the standing end using Half Hitches or a Figure 8 Follow Through. Nomenclature: The name "Tensionless" has been deprecated. However, suggestions for some alternative, e.g., "High Strength Tie‐Off", or "Multi‐Wrap Anchor", have not gained favor – for the obvious reason that "Tensionless" is in widespread use.

Timber Hitch
The Timber Hitch provides a strong temporary attachment to cargo or to a log or spar and can be used to tow a log or spar either afloat or on land. A great merit is that when the load is released, the knot almost falls undone.

Timber Hitch Tying
Pass the end of the rope around the pole and then around the standing end. Wrap the end around itself three times and tighten the knot so that the three turns are gripped against the pole.

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Timber Hitch Details
Uses: The Timber Hitch is described by (Ashley ABOK #1665, p 290) as much used for handling cargo "... for which it is very convenient, as it practically falls apart when pull ceases." It is also useful when towing a spar or log either afloat or on land. When used for this purpose, the Timber Hitch is often placed near the center of the spar and a separate Half Hitch is dropped over the end of the spar to act as a guide. Other Applications: The same hitch is known as a Bowyer's Knot because it attaches the end of the bow string on a longbow. It is also used to attach the strings on some stringed instruments including the ukelele and the guitar. http://www.animatedknots.com/timber/index.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www.anim atedknots.com

Trilene Knot
The Trilene Knot provides a strong and reliable knot to join monofilament line to hooks, swivels, and lures.

Trilene Knot Tying
Pass the tag end of the line through the eye twice. Wrap it around the standing end five or six times. Thread the end through the original loop beside the eye. Lubricate and pull the knot tight. Trim the end, but not too short.

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Trilene Knot Details
Uses: The Trilene Knot is a strong and reliable knot to join monofilament line to hooks, swivels and lures. It resists slippage and failures and is an excellent and stronger alternative to the Clinch Knot. Tying it: When trimming the tag end, leave about an eighth of an inch for security. Advantages: The double wrap of line through the eye takes some of the strain and may be responsible for claims that this knot retains a high proportion of ideal line strength. This is more likely when the thickness of the eye is greater than the line diameter. http://www.animatedknots.com/trilene/index.php?Categ=fishing&LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www.animat edknots.com

Tripod Lashing
A Tripod Lashing is used to join three poles to one another for use as a tripod.

Tripod Lashing Technique
Start with a Clove Hitch around one pole. Wrap about six racking turns around the three poles weaving in and out between them. Make two or three tight frapping turns in the two gaps. Finish with a Clove Hitch. Cross the two outside poles to form the tripod.

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The method shown in the animation is preferred because the legs bind against each other for greater stability. A lashing which is too tight or extends for too great a length may either prevent the tripod from being formed or may overload the rope. Forming the tripod then twists and tightens the lashing. trial and error may be required to obtain the correct tension. Such turns are known as Racking turns. These turns are known as Frapping Turns. This increases the contact between rope and wood and reduces slipping.
. Scouting: Four tripods can be used to support a pair of horizontal poles under a table. Racking Turns: The lashing passes to and fro between the poles. In this respect the Tripod Lashing differs from other lashings: it is possible to make it too tight! On occasion. and can even break it if tied too tightly. p 342) but he shows the two side legs spreading apart from each other instead of crossing. Options: Some descriptions start with the center pole extending in the opposite direction from the two side legs.13
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Form Tripod
Tripod Lashing Details
Use: Ashley shows a Tripod Lashing (ABOK # 2111. Frapping Turns: The turns surrounding the lashing at right angles exert a tightening effect on the lashing.

Pass the tail round the hook below and through the Directional Figure 8 Loop. Harvester's. The variety of names for this hitch is a tribute to its widespread use. Harvester's Hitch) (ABOK # 2124. and pull tight.
. Lorry) Hitch Tying
Form a bight in the standing end and use it to tie a Directional Figure 8 Knot. It is a valuable knot ‐ particularly for securing loads or tarpaulins. Trucker's Hitch (Lorry. It provides a three to one purchase which makes it easier to tighten the rope and reduces the strain on the final knot. Complete the knot with two Half Hitches below the loop. Haymaker's Hitch. Lorry) Hitch Details
Use: The Trucker's Hitch (Lorry Knot.
Trucker's (Haymaker's. Harvester's.
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Trucker's (Haymaker's. p 344) has the distinctive feature of providing a mechanical advantage when being tightened. Harvester's)
The Trucker's Hitch is used to secure a load or a tarpaulin down to a hook or other fixed point. Haymaker's.

6:1. http://www. The other hand is then used to form the two Half Hitches. a mere twist of the rope to create the loop. Whichever hitch is used. In practice the mechanical advantage is much less.3:1 Purchase: The arrangement of line provides a theoretical 3:1 purchase. However. may be more like 1. the three to one purchase.animatedknots. However. the load can be taken temporarily by pinching the rope where it passes through the loop. However.php?Categ=scouting&LogoImage=LogoGrog. The common factors are: a knot to create an eye at the top. the rope may be passed around the lower hook a second time before being secured. rope is running over rope with considerable friction. the Slip Knot. Structure: There are several variations in widespread use.jpg&Website=www. this tends to be hard to untie after heavy loads and the version in the animation is preferred. The final hitch can be a Rolling Hitch which has the advantage that it facilitates adjustment. The theoretical 3:1 gain assumes that the lower attachment point is fixed and the upper point is being moved.com/truckers/index. simplest of all. the Alpine Butterfly. the Bowline on a Bight. Classical Structure: Early descriptions show a Figure 8 Loop used to form the initial loop. and. and a hitch to secure the end.com
.ani matedknots. hauling on the line can be surged and then the friction is an advantage as it helps hold the gain while the end is secured. Taking the Strain: After the free end is threaded and tightened. Several knots may be used at the top including the Directional Figure 8 (used in the animation.

the hitch should be carefully tightened. Pull the tail to release.
Tumble Hitch Tying
Hold an initial bight of the rope against the pole. created drawings. When complete. This is now the accepted name for Lehman's idea. named it the Tumble Hitch. and then transfer his grip to the second and third bight in succession. Then tuck a bight through the second one. the Tumble Hitch is the best. it is an excellent quick‐release hitch that holds a load until released by a pull on the free tail. The Highwayman's and Mooring are also described here. Tumble Hitch
This Tumble Hitch is is a quick‐release knot. Tighten to secure the knot and take the load.crafts.knots but he gave it no name. Place a second bight behind the pole and through the initial bight. Like a Slipped Buntline. Similar Knots: Many quick‐release hitches have been described. Tying it: The standing part remains passive while the knot is being tied. The user can hold up the first bight.
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Release
Tumble Hitch Details
Origin: Dan Lehman described a variation on the Highwayman's Hitch at the end of his entry on March 6.
. Roo replied. 2004 in Google Groups rec. Of the three. Pass the tail around the Standing End. and now shows it on his website Notable Knots.

Then. a dinghy may be temporarily secured alongside a high dock.Real Danger: Quick release hitches share a major fault: entanglement of the free tail with the moving load can trigger abrupt release. A climber. The design of the hitch transfers the load first to an intermediate bight and then to the final locking bight. Or. the tail of the dinghy painter can be pulled to retrieve it. when the owner has climbed down the ladder and is safely aboard. 3. while boarding a kayak. 2.
. the final bight can be lengthened and tied off as an overhand knot around the standing end. Quick release knots should not be used for retrieving a climbing rope because there are recommended alternatives: 1. Advantages: The Tumble Hitch is stable and jam‐proof even with heavy loads.. e.g. 4. The jam‐proof benefits are retained and the overhand knot can be untied when the quick‐release feature is required. This limits the load on the locking bight and avoids jamming. supervised use to hold non‐critical loads. might grab at the adjacent line and trigger a fatal fall. Other Uses: The Tumble Hitch is suitable for temporary. frightened by a sudden slip or jerk. Longer use: To use the Tumble Hitch for longer periods. The Tumble Hitch can be used to lower several loads of provisions into the dinghy.

Finished. Rotate the braid to keep it in view and continue braiding. braid the end and the loops together. On the third pass. Finish by tucking the ends in. or woggle.
Turk's Head (Woggle) Tying
Wrap the line around your hand (wood here) overlapping to start the braiding. for a boy scout's scarf. Turk's Head (Woggle)
The Turk's Head makes a neat ring ‐ most commonly employed as a slide.
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. Then continue braiding by following the rope around the same path for all three turns.

Variations: There are many variations on the simple Turk's head. the braiding was performed round a piece of wood and the work was rotated as the braiding advanced. WARNING: Molten nylon is dangerously hot. most modern rope slides easily and the woggle may slip undone. For the demonstration here. it is possible to fuse the ends after warming them using a candle. Finishing: Traditionally scout woggles were not secured. for scout's scarves. or woggle. Tying it: The Turk's Head is usually tied around the hand. many more braids can be created before making the end follow the lead of the first round of braiding. if made of a leather thong. nor the recently heated rope end should come into contact with your skin!
. and the number of times the end follows the lead can be varied. Neither molten nylon. However. for starting a fire using friction. the woggle could be undone for use around the camp or. Supposedly. As modern rope also melts. more than one strand can be used. p 232) is widely used as a slide. With a large enough loop.13
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Turk's Head (Woggle) Details
Uses: The Turk's Head (ABOK # 1303 ‐ 5.

Demonstration: The process of braiding using a single end is readily understood by practicing with a short length as shown on the left.
. With a longer length. this process can be repeated many times until the end of the loop is reached.

http://www.php?Categ=decorative&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Tighten the knot and re‐lay the rope. with no "end" to determine the "direction" there is no way to distinguish a Wall from a Crown. It provides a permanent (small) stopper knot in a rope.animatedknots. Pass one strand around in the direction of the rope's lay and under the next strand.
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Wall Knot Details
Uses: The Wall Knot is tied using the strands of a rope. Its greater use is as a component of other decorative knots such as the Wall and Crown (Manrope Knot) and the Double Matthew Walker. The crown directs the strands back down the rope and the wall directs the strands away from the rope.com
. It is component of the Matthew Walker and the Manrope Knot.
Wall Knot Tying
Unwind enough rope to form the knot and re‐lay the rope. Wall Knot
The Wall creates a small stopper knot tied using the strands of the rope. Repeat the same process with the second and again with the third which will exit through the first strand. They only differ in how they are tied with respect to the rope.com/wall/index. They are in fact identical.anim atedknots.jpg&Website=www. Relationship to the Crown: The Crown and the Wall are very closely related.

Then take each strand across its neighbor to make a Crown. Crown. Here the strands of the rope are used to tie a Wall followed by a Crown to make a ball on the rope's end. Tuck each strand round so that it follows itself. Trim the ends.
Wall and Crown (Manrope Knot) Tying
Unravel the strands of the rope and tie a Wall knot.
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Wall and Crown (Manrope Knot) Details
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. Wall. Carefully tighten each stand in turn to achieve a neat appearance. and Manrope Knot
The Wall and the Crown are essential components of many decorative knots.

Uses: The Wall and Crown (ABOK # 672. p 117. The name "Manrope Knot" is a later name for a "Double Wall and Crown". By contrast a crown directs the ends back in a convenient position to make a Backsplice. and # 847. p156). when followed round. a wall in one end would be identical to a crown in the other. Finishing the Ball. They are identical except for the direction of the main rope. If two rope ends faced each other. each strand is tucked under its neighbor. Difference: The important difference is that a wall leaves the ends continuing on so that they may be laid up again to continue the rope. Many variations are described: the Crown may precede the Wall. Structure: In both the Crown and the Wall. The crown and wall are fundamental components of many decorative knots. the number of turns may be varied. In this animation the ends have been cut short and heated to prevent them fraying. and the ends can be spliced back into the rope.
. make a pleasing ball or button on the end of a rope.

Water Knot (Ring Bend) Tying
Tie a loose overhand knot in the end of the strap. The wide area of contact between the two straps ensures a secure knot. Thread the other strap in the reverse direction following the exact path of the first overhand knot. Pull the knot tight.
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Water Knot (Ring Bend) Tying Details
Structure: The Water Knot (ABOK # 296. Water Knot
The Water Knot is used to join two pieces of webbing strapping. It is sometimes known as a Ring Bend
. p 50) is essentially tied as an overhand knot (below left).

Caution: The Water Knot has been reported to slip a little after cyclical low loading using some types of webbing.com/waterknot/index.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Uses: In climbing it is used to join two pieces of webbing strapping. It is prudent to leave long tails with stopper knots in them and also inspect the Water Knot to check it has not slipped significantly.a nimatedknots.jpg&Website=www.The second strap (or rope) passes along the course of the Overhand Knot in the reverse direction. Also see Study by Tom Moyer. The knot should be arranged neatly and pulled tight. http://www. However. the commonly used 1" tubular nylon webbing resisted slipping under both high and low loading conditions.com
.animatedknots.

Pull them through the rope and trim the ends. West Country Whipping
The West Country Whipping is easy to teach & learn. Finish with several Square (Reef) knots. The whipping is completed with a Reef Knot. Continue making Half Knots in front and behind until the length of the whipping equals about the diameter of the rope. Repeat behind the rope and tie another.
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. Overhand knots are tied back and front of the rope.
West Country Whipping Tying
Pass the twine round the rope and tie a Half Knot.

If a needle is available it is worth burying the ends by pulling them through the rope. as each one loosens. an advantage in starting at the end and winding the twine inwards: when the whipping is completed. It also leaves a fairly reliable last defense if the whipping comes undone. However.13
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West Country Whipping Details
Uses: The West Country Whipping (ABOK # 3458. Multiple Square (Reef) Knots The West Country can be completed with a stack of Square Knots but this leaves an unsightly tail. A heavily used rope will shake this Square Knot loose. Techniques: There are several variations of this whipping:  Where to Start: When whipping a rope's end it seems natural to wind the twine outwards towards the end. Start with a Constrictor: A quick way to start the West Country is to drop a Constrictor Knot on the end before tying Half Knots. There is. an opportunity is presented to procrastinate: tie another Square Knot and put off having to whip the end properly with a better whipping. This has the advantage of quickly gaining very secure control of the rope's end. this string of Square Knots can be pulled through the rope to bury it. If a needle is available. however.
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. Square (Reef Knot): The classic description completes this whipping with a Square Knot with the ends trimmed. it does fail slowly ‐ the Half Knots work their way loose in succession and. the ends can be pulled through the body of the rope to prevent them unraveling. p 548) must be the easiest whipping to teach and learn ‐ merely a series of Half Knots completed with a Square (Reef) Knot! No equipment is required except the whipping twine and it secures the end of a rope fairly well. The final Square Knot can shake loose followed by each Half Knot.

Commanding Officer of the American Zeppelin (Los Angeles/ZR3). Summer 2010: (1) the docking procedure typically employed shackling two wires together. History: The Zeppelin Bend has been described as used to secure Airships. It joins two ropes of roughly the same size. Doubt has now been cast on both the use and the authorship. (2) in later life Rosendahl claimed
. while still under load.
Zeppelin Bend Tying
Form a bight in both ropes and overlap them. It is a reliable bend that can be untied even after being heavily loaded but not.
Zeppelin Bend
The Zeppelin Bend is one of a family of knots based on interlocking overhand knots. It is an excellent alternative to the more widely used Double Fisherman's because it eliminates the risk of jamming. Back view.
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Back view
Zeppelin Bend Details
Uses: The Zeppelin Bend is one of the bends employing interlocking overhand knots. Tighten to form the Zeppelin Bend. Pass each end around across itself ‐ going over for the top bight and under for the bottom bight. Vice Admiral Charles Rosendahl. 60. however. Giles Camplin. Editor of Airship Heritage Trust's Journal Dirigible reported the following in Issue No. was supposed to have insisted that the knot be used to moor his airship. Thread both ends past each other through the middle.

the Zeppelin.animatedknots. The Alpine Butterfly Bend. Similar Knots: The Zeppelin Bend is remarkably similar to several other bends including the Ashley. Disadvantages: Attention to tying it correctly is critical. and the Alpine Butterfly Bend. it would seem prudent to avoid the Ashley and the Hunter's.com
. its similarity to other bends employing interlocking overhand knots risks confusion ‐ and mistakes.ignorance of the knot. and (5) a rigger who flew on the R100 reported they always used a Rolling Hitch. Hunter's. (3) a Zeppelin knot cannot be untied under load. Essentially all these knots employ interlocking overhand knots with the ends threaded through or across the middle. Advantages: The Zeppelin Bend is reliable with very little tendency to slip or bind. David M. Tying it: The arrangement of the interlocking loops and the path of the ends through the center are critical.php?Categ=climbing&LogoImage=LogoGrog. Delaney tested these bends and the Carrick Bend for their tendency to jam. Technique is critical because Roo emphasizes the risk of creating an Evil Impostor when tied incorrectly. (4) a bend joining two ropes would be an awkward way to moor anything. Although the Zeppelin is secure and can be untied easily.jpg&Website=www. Amongst the family of bends based on linked overhand knots.ani matedknots. http://www. Testing by Roo found the knot to be exceptionally secure and shake‐resistant in all materials. and the Carrick could all be untied easily using fingers and fingernails. For this reason we also recommend the Alpine Butterfly Bend tied using the same technique employed for the Alpine Butterfly Loop. He heavily loaded the knots tied in 1/16 inch braided nylon. it can be hard to distinguish it from the less satisfactory Hunter's Bend.com/zeppelin/index. The Ashley and the Hunter's consistently jammed tight and would have had to be cut to release them. In this respect he regards it as superior to the Alpine Butterfly Bend. After it is tied.